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Success Stories

Goodwill Industries and Cardinal Stritch Collaborate for Students

By community, Goodwill News, Mission Services, Success Stories

Goodwill and Cardinal Stritch High School teamed up to offer students the opportunity to earn an associate degree at Lourdes University.  Students attend classes at Lourdes each Tuesday and Thursday morning. Goodwill’s Good Rides Program provides transportation to and from school for the students. 

This initiative not only highlights the importance of education but also emphasizes community engagement and partnerships that uplift our youth. Goodwill is particularly proud to be a part of the wonderful program, which ensures they have reliable transportation to and from school. By breaking down barriers to education, Goodwill reaffirms its commitment to fostering opportunities that lead to meaningful employment and personal growth.

Mission Moment: Meet Jazmyne

By community, Goodwill News, Mission Services, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Starting a new job can be daunting, and dishwashing was not necessarily Jazmyne’s first pick. However, at Frisch’s Big Boy, she saw it as more than just cleaning dishes. She discovered it is a vital first step, ensuring a smooth operation and happy customers. The real benefit? The chance to learn and grow within the Frisch’s Big Boy family. Though nervous on her first day, Jazmyne’s positive attitude and quick learning made her a natural. We are excited to see where her journey takes her at Frisch’s Big Boy!

Mission Moment: Meet Zavion

By community, Goodwill News, Mission Services, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Zavion was referred to Goodwill by OOD for job placement services.  Zavion started working at Arby’s in May performing routine maintenance duties around the business. He did so well that his manager insisted he try a position in the kitchen. Zavion was excited to learn something new and started learning the fryer station. He immediately picked up the responsibilities and excelled during his first lunch rush never falling behind. Zavion’s manager was thrilled and kept praising him continuously because they were short-handed. Zavion is glad he took the opportunity and is excited to learn the other stations. Way to go Zavion!

Mission Moment: Meet Kevin

By community, Goodwill News, Mission Services, Reentry Program, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Meet Kevin

Kevin came to Goodwill on a referral from the Ohio Link Halfway House. After meeting with our reentry team, it was clear that Kevin was interested in becoming an electrician.  With Goodwill’s guidance, Kevin is currently enrolled in the apprenticeship program and is working part-time in the field, learning more about becoming an electrician.  Goodwill is excited to see Kevin blossom in this new chapter of his life.  Well done Kevin!

Mission Moment: Meet Roberta

By community, Mission Services, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Being retired for over 30 years, the last thing Roberta thought she would be doing was to become a participant with Goodwill’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP).  Roberta learned about the program when she attended a presentation at her housing facility.  Roberta entered the program and was placed into a position at the Great Lakes Community Action Program, where she became a passenger care attendant.  She then was promoted to the Resident Services Coordinator.  She has dramatically improved her computer skills, become proficient with general office work, and helps develop programs for residents.  Staff and residents alike are extremely fond of Roberta and she enjoys her job.  Great work Roberta, Goodwill is extremely proud of you!

Mission Moment: Meet Terry

By community, Mission Services, Reentry Program, Success Stories, Testimonials, Uncategorized, Workforce Development

Terry came to Goodwill from Toledo V.O.A. and successfully entered the Goodwill Industries of NW Ohio, Inc. transitional reentry program. In addition to his reentry barrier, Terry suffered from medical complications as a result of his stroke. Goodwill assisted Terry with wrap-around services, job development and job placement services. Terry has made a full recovery and is now working full time. Terry stated, “I wouldn’t have been able to get here without the help of Goodwill”. Congratulations Terry!

For more information on how Goodwill’s Reentry Team and other programs can help you: https://bit.ly/_MissionServices

Mission Moment: Defiance Job Connection Center Collaboration

By community, Goodwill News, Job Connection Center, Mission Services, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Goodwill Defiance JCC Navigator Amy Bach collaborated with the Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission (NOCAC) Getting Ahead Program to help women in the Defiance area overcome life barriers and gain independence.  Getting Ahead students participated in classes that consisted of learning how to handle relationships, the adult, parent, and child voice.  Amy assisted the participants with setting goals, career exploration and resume development.  Amy was honored to speak at the graduation ceremony on behalf of all six participants on December 12.  Congratulations to these remarkable women and Goodwill looks forward to seeing the amazing things you will accomplish!

Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission (NOCAC) Getting Ahead Program graduates
Job Connection Center Navigator, Amy Bach

Mission Moment: Meet Christie

By community, Mission Services, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Meet Christie! Christie has been a client at the Job Connection Center (JCC) since 2019. Since then, she has made many strides. When Christie first came to us, she was at Ohio Link and using the JCC computer lab for her online college classes. She is now enrolled in our Northwest Ohio Manufacturing Alliance program (NOMA), working two part-time jobs, and has a place of her own. Congratulations, Christie, on the progress you have made!

For more information on how Goodwill’s Job Connection Center and other programs can help you: https://bit.ly/_MissionServices

Mission Moment

Mission Moment: Meet Stephanie

By community, Mission Services, Reentry Program, Success Stories, Workforce Development

Stephanie came to us after recently released from incarceration. Since her release, Stephanie was able to hit the ground running. She was eager to gain employment when she first came to Goodwill and with Goodwill’s help was able to obtain employment quickly. Goodwill Industries was able to assist her with some quality work shoes, per her request. Stephanie continues to maintain employment since shortly after her release and is thankful to Goodwill for the support. Keep up the good work Stephanie, Goodwill is extremely proud of you!