Good for everyone

"When Nirav’s wife was expecting a child, he knew he needed to find a full-time job with benefits. He had been working on-call for the U.S. Postal Service for years, but couldn’t pass the test for permanent employment due to a speech disability and the effects of living with cerebral palsy. Through Goodwill he was able to train and obtain a new career. Today he has a new job… and a new baby."- Robbi, Nirav’s Job Developer

"I was living at a homeless shelter when I heard a Goodwill presentation. I sincerely wanted to work and become independent again. I started out as a sales associate in a Goodwill retail store and was excited to find that I have a natural artistic ability, so now I also create furniture and decor displays that help boost sales. I am happy to say I enjoy an independent life on my own. " - Patricia

"Our daughter Kourtney is a bright girl, yet her speech is very difficult to understand due to Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Goodwill's Assistive Technology Exchange Center provides her with ongoing training to develop her communication skills using a device that transmits and receives messages. Now attending school, Kourtney can participate in the classroom and experience the daily joys of childhood. " - Kourtney's parents

"I went to the interview at Albertson's by myself. I got the job, and take the bus to work. I started out as a clerk and now I'm in the floral department, which I love. I even made Employee of the Month." - Grace

"My disability made it hard to get a job, even though I was happy to do almost anything for work. Goodwill found a job for me at a printing shop and I love it. Even when there is no work, the owners invite me to come in anyway." - Michel

"I love sports, so when Goodwill got me a job at Nike I was in heaven. I am very happy there ... I like giving a high-five to my friends at work and watching the sports channel on breaks." - Adam

"Ryan was shy at first but soon he became a part of the Goodwill custodial team at the Federal Building in Laguna Niguel. He jokes a lot with his co-workers but he takes pride in his work and he really does love his job. He’s made a lot of friends here and it’s been very gratifying to look after him to makes sure he’s getting his job done and that everyone is happy with his work. Everyone here is so supportive of him and enjoys having him be a part of the team" --Ryan’s Job Coach

"I spent most of the first year of my life in the hospital, recovering from the effects of a fire, and was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. I have surpassed all my doctors' expectations, living a full life and working in Goodwill's Packaging and Assembly Services and I am now the editor of a newsletter for Goodwill's program participants, called Great People." - James

"A motorcycle accident left me with paralysis starting from my chest down. My advice to anyone facing a physical disability or illness is-- keep moving and feel life again! As one of the first members of the Goodwill Fitness Center I can truly say that it is possible to achieve a healthier and happier life. With this Fitness Center I have access to a great place to improve my physical condition as well as a resource that provides a true sense of community."- Rich

"With the help of Goodwill's Assistive Technology Exchange Center, Dalton has made huge improvements in his ability to learn and connect with people. His focus and confidence are off the charts." - Chris Fougner, Dalton's aide

"I'm visually impaired, but I see a bright future ahead. Thanks to Goodwill, I work at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney. Someday I hope to be a catering manager." - Sara