6 minute read
MEET KELSEY GREEN
Her Journey With Goodwill, Inc.
KELSEY GREEN’S STORY is one of resilience, self-discovery, and overcoming challenges. For 32 years, she has called Fishers, Indiana, home, and throughout her life, she has faced obstacles that many would find daunting. Despite that, Kelsey has carved out a life that exemplifies strength, independence, and determination. Her story is a testament to the importance of a solid support system, the power of community, and the transformative impact of organizations that provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities. One of the organizations that played a pivotal role in Kelsey’s success is Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana. For the past eight years, she has worked as a valued associate at the Goodwill store in Fishers.
Born with a mild intellectual disability, Kelsey’s condition was first identified early in her life. It was her daycare teacher who noticed something was different about Kelsey and suggested further evaluation. After the diagnosis, Kelsey began attending early childhood preschool, which provided the structure and support she needed to thrive academically and personally. The early discovery of her disability, while a challenge, set the stage for Kelsey to receive the help and guidance that would shape her future.
Kelsey’s family has always been there for her. Her parents, Jeff and Bev, have been instrumental in helping Kelsey navigate her world. Her sister, Sarah, is also an essential part of Kelsey’s life. Sarah, who is married and has two children, shares in Kelsey’s joys and challenges. Kelsey’s relationship with her family has been vital to her personal growth.
Learning to drive was a monumental achievement for Kelsey, and her family was right beside her as she did it. Living on her own has been one of Kelsey’s most significant milestones to date. While the transition to independence was challenging, Kelsey’s determination has allowed her to navigate the complexities of adulthood. She credits her family’s encouragement with being a major factor in her success. “My family has been my rock.”
Kelsey’s long-term employment is another testament to her ability to rise above challenges. In the eight years she has worked for Goodwill, she has grown both professionally and personally. Goodwill is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Their mission is to support individuals by offering work that builds skills, provides dignity, and promotes independence. Nearly one-third of Goodwill’s workforce, approximately 1,800 employees, are individuals with disabilities, which speaks volumes about the organization’s commitment to creating inclusive job opportunities. Goodwill’s work environment is designed to support individuals with disabilities in their roles. Kelsey, like many other employees, benefits from the accommodations that Goodwill provides. For example, cashier stations at Goodwill are specifically designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring that employees with physical disabilities can perform their job functions comfortably. Goodwill also makes accommodations on a case-by-case basis, based on an individual’s unique needs, ensuring that everyone has the tools and support to succeed.
For Kelsey, working at Goodwill has been life-changing. “I really like the managers at Goodwill – they’re all helpful and supportive,” Kelsey said, citing her site leader, Jana Hobson, as one of the key people who have supported her throughout her time there. Jana is always there for Kelsey, offering support flexibility and understanding of Goodwill’s management team have allowed Kelsey to thrive in her role, where she feels both valued and supported.
Another Goodwill program that Kelsey has benefited from is the Mission Coach program. Goodwill’s Mission Coaches are life and career coaches who assist employees with a variety of challenges, from ensuring that basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare are met, to helping individuals pursue education, gain job credentials, and improve their financial literacy. Mission Coaches work closely with employees to help them meet both their immediate needs and long-term goals.
Beyond her job at Goodwill, Kelsey is also involved in her community. She participates in Special Olympics, where she has had the opportunity to showcase her athletic abilities. Through Special Olympics, Kelsey has not only developed her physical skills but has also formed meaningful connections with others who share similar challenges. The sense of belonging that Kelsey experiences through Special Olympics has been empowering, giving her a platform to achieve goals she never thought possible.
Thrive Social Club, which provides individuals with intellectual abilities with a chance to socialize and engage in personal development, has been another important part of Kelsey’s life. She has made new friends, tried new activities, and built her confidence. She is also active in a special needs ministry, where she provides support and encouragement to others facing similar challenges. “The more involved I am, the more I grow,” Kelsey said. “It gives me a chance to be part of something bigger than myself.”
When asked about the most meaningful moments in her life, Kelsey said “Family vacations and spending time with my nephew and niece are memories that will stay with me I’m really proud of.”
Kelsey’s family remains her greatest source of strength, and she continues to be deeply grateful for their unwavering support. “We’ve always just taken things one day at a time,” Kelsey says of her family’s approach. “And we’ve made it work.”
