I’ve heard it said so many times that you can’t move forward, looking back. Your past is behind you and you can only use it as a stepping stone into your future. Many times we try to attack our life situations alone. Don’t go at it alone. Partnership and relationships are key. Partner with someone, build relationships.
I admit that when I used to hear the word Goodwill, I would only think of the store and the great deals I could get or how I can help someone with my donations. Two years ago, a friend introduced me to Goodwill in a different manner, and as a result of that introduction we are now one of the tenants in the Goodwill collaboration zone with many other non-profit organizations, making a difference in the community.
Thank you Daniel Williams for the introduction and thank you Goodwill for not only a great partnership, but also for helping others realize their dream.
When I heard the stories of Brian Miller and Tieausha Thomas, I am reminded that we all need somebody to partner with; to give us that boost when we are feeling low; to guide us when we can’t see our way. I invite you to check out these two videos from Goodwill.
Achiever of the Year – Brian Miller (Little Rock, AR) Brian Miller decided he was going to change. After being involved in drug trafficking, he was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison. After serving his time, he was living at a halfway house with 30 days to get a job or go back behind bars. After repeated rejections, Brian was introduced to Goodwill Industries of Arkansas’ Transitional Employment Opportunity (TEO) services. Discouraged, he tore up his first application. Then he saw it: the Goodwill van. “That Goodwill van was the beginning of something great.” Brian applied for and completed a paid job-training program and earned a career readiness certificate before being offered a position at Goodwill. After several promotions, he is a production supervisor who coaches and mentors new program participants who are enhancing their job readiness.
Kenneth Shaw Graduate of the Year – Tieausha Thomas (Portland, OR) Tieausha Thomas is a relentless survivor. She put a life of physical abuse in her rearview mirror, stubbornly committed to having a better life. “I left everything I worked so hard for back in Atlanta, Georgia. Today, I can give my children the life they deserve.” Tieausha credits Goodwill Industries of the Columbia Willamette’s Job Connection services with arming her with an enhanced resume and new-found confidence that helped her land a job with Wells Fargo. She advanced from part-time to full-time teller in less than a year. Today, she is a successful personal banker with a satisfying career and working mother who is committed to caring for her family.
There is “Hope for your Future”…