GOODWILL ® SUCCESS STORY

Thomas was a homeless Veteran who received a twenty-dollar clothing voucher for the Goodwill Retail Store. When he came in to shop for clothes, a Goodwill employee realized he was a Veteran in need and let him know about the Goodwill Mission Services Veterans program. This serendipitous moment changed his life.

Thomas had tried to find work but was never able to find sustainable employment. Transitioning into civilian life was not easy. He overcame opioid dependence brought on from numerous surgeries, but ultimately found himself unemployed, homeless, and hopeless.

Thomas worked with his Goodwill Case Manager and learned he could gain power over his life and get on a path toward self-sufficiency. He received resume writing assistance and interview practice and took financial literacy training. He also benefitted from the program’s supportive services, which relieved the financial burdens he faced. Thomas shared it was nice to have the support of the Goodwill team; always knowing there was someone by his side who truly cared made all the difference.

Always knowing there was someone by my side who truly cared made all the difference.”

Ultimately, the Goodwill Mission Services team helped Thomas get a job in his desired career as a counselor. Three years ago, he was a different person. Today, with a stable job and positive outlook on life, he’s on the road to being the best person he can be and enjoys giving back to others in need.