Michael had experience in the construction field – but for him, the journey to a more focused and fulfilling career started with a desire to specialize.

“I was working a handyman job, doing a little bit of everything,” he said. “And I wanted to take my skills and focus them.”

Michael learned about Goodwill’s tuition-free Construction and Trade Skills training program through his therapist and quickly signed up, beginning with the Construction Basics program and moving into the Electrical training program.

“I like to learn new things. It was a little bit intimidating, but exciting at the same time,” he emphasized. “I was excited to go to class. It helped me get out and talk to new people and network.”

Goodwill participants receive wraparound services to help them on their pathway to prosperity. Two of the most valued tools are a Career Navigator that works with participants one-on-one to achieve their goals, and an Employer Engagement Specialist who helps connect them with meaningful jobs. The team, and especially his Career Navigator, Verona, played a key role in helping Michael navigate the process of preparing for employment.

“She helped me a lot, and the relationship was good from the get-go,” Michael said about Verona. “That process was pretty much seamless.”

Before he completed the program, an opportunity opened up to work at Goodwill, and Michael accepted a job offer as a Facilities Technician at our Goodwill Opportunity Campus.

“I like the variety because it’s never the same job. I also like the camaraderie. Everybody’s nice and friendly,” he stated.

Since joining the organization as a team member, his understanding of Goodwill’s mission has deepened.

“I didn’t understand fully before what Goodwill was about,” he said. “Now that I do, it makes me feel like a better person.”

And at Goodwill, our mission starts at home. In addition to serving the community, we’re committed to supporting our own team members. Through programs and supports like personalized career coaching, professional development, tuition reimbursement, basic needs assistance and more, we aim to create opportunities for our team members to grow their careers and achieve more for themselves and their families, whether that future is with Goodwill or beyond.

Goodwill’s services offered to both the community and team members are made possible thanks to financial contributions from donors and shopping and donating at our 36 retail stores and donation drop-off locations. For Michael, the personal investment was worth it for the opportunity that followed.

“The training is free, but it cost my time and effort,” he said. “The opportunities that follow are amazing. It might seem simple, but it’ll take you somewhere nice.”

If you would like to help participants like Michael on their pathway to prosperity, consider making a financial contribution, or dropping off your gently used donations at one of our 36 stores or more than 40 donation drop-off locations.