Meet Donald, a participant from Goodwill’s Reintegration Services! While incarcerated, Donald connected with Goodwill’s First Step Initiative ReSTART (FSA) program this past March. Understanding the challenges of reentry, Donald was determined to find support for a successful transition. Since his release, he has received reentry support, which includes workforce development, housing assistance, and career planning.

During his time in the FSA ReSTART program, Donald secured stable employment and housing! He has returned to a job he loves and plans to own a moving and delivery business one day.

Donald advises other participants, “Help is there if you want it. If you’re willing to show up, engage, and put in the effort—the Help is there. So, do what you need to do to take advantage of it. Goodwill really cares about people, and they do everything they can to help you move forward and stay on the right path, but you have to want it, too.”

Congratulations, Donald!

Learn more about Goodwill’s Reintegration Services here.

Meet Quinn, a member of Union Station Clubhouse, an affiliate of Goodwill! Quinn joined the Union Station Clubhouse in late 2016 to develop self-esteem, value, and job skills. On a typical day at USC, he works in food service, baking a meat lover’s pizza, or in operations, doing his part to keep the building clean.

After joining USC, Quinn also began employment as a food prepper and cook at the Goodwill Fayette Workforce Development Center. Then, in 2023, he transitioned to cartridge recycling through Goodwill’s Mental Health Transitional Employment program. Quinn’s exemplary work in the program earned him a temporary promotion to Maintenance 1 team member! He currently does restroom janitorial work, general cleaning, floor maintenance, and more.

Quinn enjoys trying new restaurants and listening to and playing music in his spare time, especially with his guitar. In the future, he plans to begin part-time work for another business, find an apartment, and buy a new guitar.

Congratulations on all your accomplishments and best of luck going forward, Quinn!

Learn more about Goodwill’s mental health services here.

Meet Talia, a participant in Goodwill’s Harbor 2 housing program!

After struggling with long-term homelessness and drug addiction, Talia came to Goodwill for support to get back on her feet. With Goodwill’s encouragement, she received updated dental work, applied for housing, quit smoking, enrolled in therapy, and landed a part-time job at IHOP! Now, Talia is ready to begin the next steps and enroll in school to become a veterinary technician or counselor.

Goodwill is proud to see Talia recognize her POTENTIAL and take steps to provide a better life for herself. She says, “Goodwill helped get me out of the dark and back into the light! I will not forget the things they’ve done nor stop giving back. I love the work they do. Goodwill helped me find my way and finally experience the feeling of joy and hope again. I am ever so grateful for them!”

Congratulations, and best of luck with your next steps, Talia!

Learn more about Goodwill’s Housing programs here.

Meet Byanka, a participant in Goodwill’s EARN & Work Ready program!

Byanka came to Goodwill for job search assistance to create a better future for her young daughter. While enrolled in the EARN program, she completed training in the Job Corps Medical Assistance program and earned a certification in Aesthetics from the Fountain of Youth Academy.

Prior to completing her certification, Byanka was already searching for a new job. Allegheny Health Network hired her as a medical assistant, and she continues to thrive! Bynaka utilized Goodwill’s resources, such as transportation, financial aid for certification fees, and rental assistance.

Now, Byanka can focus on her larger goal of owning a mobile spa business. She’s also considering pursuing a degree in nursing to expand her knowledge further and open more opportunities.

Byanka’s journey is an excellent example of how much you can achieve with support, determination, and commitment. Goodwill is proud to see Byanka’s growth and can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next!

Learn more about Goodwill’s EARN & Work Ready Program here.

Meet Cyndy, a graduate of our GED program!

In 2021, Cyndy came to Goodwill for ESL classes. Her English was limited, so she wanted to improve her speaking, listening, and reading skills. Cyndy worked diligently with her teachers, and her language abilities quickly exploded! Her skills grew so much that she entered an advanced English class aimed to help students transition into GED classes.

In 2023, Cyndy transitioned into Goodwill’s GED classes. She hadn’t finished high school in her home country of Mexico, and she needed her high school diploma to go to college for finance. Cyndy studied hard and had excellent attendance. Along the way, she encountered many barriers, but she persevered through all of them.

We are so proud of Cyndy’s growth and accomplishments! She is now evaluating which colleges she wants to attend for finance. Congratulations on earning your GED, Cyndy!

Learn more about Goodwill’s education programs here.

Meet Katie, a participant in our Adult Career Services program!

Katie is a mother of four who was balancing multiple jobs to make ends meet. She decided to join Goodwill’s Adult Career Services program to help her find more stable employment while pursuing her goal of becoming an ultrasound technician. After completing a comprehensive career assessment with her Career Navigator, she created a personalized goal plan to help her secure employment, obtain her GED, and ultimately land her dream job.

Since then, Katie has been steadily working toward completing her GED, driven by her motivation to improve her career prospects and serve as a positive role model for her children. Our team has supported her every step of the way by creating a professional resume to boost her employability and providing essential resources like assistance with transportation and business appropriate clothing. Additionally, thanks to Goodwill’s partnership with the Digital Navigator Network facilitated by United Way, Katie received a new laptop to help with her education and job search!

Katie has successfully accomplished her short-term goal of securing new employment, marking a significant milestone in her journey. With renewed confidence and determination, she is eager to continue pursuing her GED and secondary education, working toward her ultimate goal of becoming an ultrasound technician.

Katie’s unwavering determination to reach her goals is admirable and reflects the bright future she is building for herself and her family. Congratulations, Katie!

Learn more about Goodwill’s Adult Career Services program here.

Meet Marvin, a participant in Goodwill’s Aspire program! Coming to Goodwill in 2005, Marvin was eager to learn job skills to help him better prepare for the workplace.

Recently, Marvin was honored with the first Joe Lamar Award, an award created by our employment partner, Construction Junction. This award is in memory of their long-time employee, Joe Lamar, who worked with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Marvin, who has worked at Construction Junction for the longest duration of any Aspire participant, is widely respected and valued by the team!

Mike Gable, the CEO of Construction Junction, presented the award to Marvin, expressing his admiration for Marvin’s work and enthusiasm for having him on the Construction Junction team. This recognition highlights the impact of our Aspire program and Goodwill’s partnership with organizations like Construction Junction in helping participants develop meaningful, lasting skills. We’re incredibly proud of Marvin’s achievements and his contribution to Goodwill’s mission!

After completing his time in Goodwill’s Aspire program, Marvin hopes to volunteer with animals and work in a retail setting. His advice to future participants is to “Go after your dreams and know you can do anything you set your mind to!”

Learn more about Goodwill’s Aspire program here.

Meet Patrick, a former resident at Northside Common Ministries (NCM)!

After losing his home in March, Patrick sought NCM’s shelter and services to help get him back on his feet. Once at NCM, Patrick got to work! He communicated with our staff about his needs and quickly obtained his important documents.

Patrick completed his residency at NCM this past August and has plans to get his own home. Patrick’s advice to future NCM residents is to relax and not be overwhelmed about about everything that has to be done right away.

Congratulations on your new start, Patrick!

Learn more about Northside Common Ministries, an affiliate of Goodwill, here.

Meet Glenn, a past resident at Northside Common Ministries (NCM)! Glenn sought NCM’s services to focus on finding employment in his field without the stress of being homeless. Northside Common Ministries came at the right time, as Glenn successfully found employment less than three months into his residency. NCM and Goodwill are thrilled to see Glenn’s determination pay off!

Glenn has advice for future NCM residents: “I came in not knowing what my experience would be. A weight was lifted after intake. I had a clean bed, facilities, and great food. The staff was reassuring and encouraging. I would advise future residents to get involved in the programs, volunteer, and take ownership of your life. This facility offers the help to succeed again.”

Learn more about Northside Common Ministries, an affiliate of Goodwill, here.

Meet Howard! This past May, Howard was experiencing homelessness and sought shelter at Northside Common Ministries (NCM). His goal was to secure permanent housing and employment.

During his time at NCM, Howard utilized resources and the shelter’s safe environment to save money and get back on his feet. Howard secured permanent housing and employment after being at NCM for four months! He says, “I appreciate the support of staff while staying in the shelter, in particular Resident Assistant Donovan.” Congratulations on your new job and home, Howard!

Learn more about Northside Common Ministries, an affiliate of Goodwill, here.

Meet Brian, a current participant in Goodwill’s Supported Employment program! When first coming to Goodwill pre-pandemic, Brian joined Food Service Training, a former program at Goodwill. He received training on kitchen safety and operations, including how to operate an industrial dishwasher, bus tables, and serve food.

After completing Food Service Training, Brian was ready to work in the community! He was hired by Freedom Square Diner and thrived in their friendly environment.

When businesses began reopening post-pandemic, Brian was determined to get back into the workforce. He was soon hired at Panera Bread as a dishwasher and dining room attendant. Brian takes pride and enjoyment in his work and appreciates being apart of a team. His manager at Panera Bread says Brian brings sunshine to her day with his encouraging words and positive attitude. Goodwill is delighted to see Brian thriving in his job!

Learn more about Goodwill’s Supported Employment program here.

Meet Cece, a participant in Goodwill’s Aspire program! Cece came to Goodwill about three years ago, searching for an adult training facility focused on job readiness, functional daily living skills, and socialization.

During her time in Aspire, Cece trained in various employment environments, took classes focusing on digital and life skills, and socialized with her friends in the program. Now, Cece proudly works three part-time jobs! She’s a stocker and barista at a cafe, a greeter, baker, and cashier at a bakery, and a cashier at a coffee shop. Although she likes all of her jobs, her favorite is being a cashier.

Cece enjoys being an active member of our community and putting her training to great use! Her favorite parts of the Aspire program were computer classes, volunteering in the community, attending a book club at the library, and socializing with her friends. Goodwill is thrilled to see Cece thriving!

Aspire is an Adult Training Facility for individuals ages 18-59 with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. This Pennsylvania-licensed and CARF-accredited program fosters the development of job readiness skills and provides guidance in the areas of daily living and independent living skills. Learn more here.

Meet Fathimah, a participant in Goodwill’s Adult Career Services program!

Fathimah came to Goodwill this past February for assistance in finding employment. Her ultimate goal is to obtain a nursing degree and license and find a job in the medical field.

Once enrolled in our Adult Career Services program, Fathimah got to work! Since February, she has worked tirelessly to create a better future for her and her family. She has obtained her driver’s permit and working towards a license, completed the Computer Basics course through the Goodwill Tech Academy, found a job, and has plans to enroll in Goodwill’s CompTIA ITF+ program and nursing school.

Congratulations and good luck with your future endeavors, Fathimah!

Learn more about Goodwill’s Adult Career Services here.

Meet Milton (right), a participant in Goodwill’s Fatherhood FIRE program!

After successfully completing our Fatherhood FIRE program, Milton was hired as a case manager in our reintegration department at Goodwill. He quickly learned all of his position’s responsibilities and stood out as a skilled case manager within the department.

Recently, Milton was nominated and selected to participate in the National Responsible Fatherhood Alliance’s (NRFA) Responsible Fatherhood program. As one of eight individuals chosen from across the country, Milton traveled to Oklahoma City, OK, and participated in NRFA’s conference.

Through the Responsible Fatherhood year-long program, Milton and other selected candidates will travel to multiple fatherhood conferences, present on various topics, learn how Responsible Fatherhood operates, and visit other similar programs. Goodwill’s reintegration department is extremely proud of Milton’s accomplishments and wish him well on his year of learning!

Learn more about Goodwill’s Fatherhood FIRE program here.

Meet Tammy, a student in Goodwill’s GED program! Tammy began her studies with Goodwill in 2020. In the beginning, she struggled with using her outdated computer and had difficulty applying to programs such as Social Security and Medicaid.

Thanks to Goodwill’s partnership with the United Way Digital Navigator Network program, Tammy was given a new laptop to use for her education. Now, she is looking forward to studying for her GED, taking exams remotely, and improving her digital skills without using outdated technology.

Tammy is very grateful for the laptop and wants to give a special shoutout to the teachers and staff at Goodwill for always taking the time to listen!

Best of luck with the rest of your studies, Tammy!

Learn more about Goodwill’s GED program here.

Meet Michelle, a participant in Goodwill’s EARN program! Michelle enrolled in our EARN program in July 2022 because she needed support finding specialized childcare for her three-year-old son. Aside from finding childcare, Michelle had other family difficulties to manage. With the help of Goodwill’s EARN team, Michelle received support and resources to resolve her struggles while still supporting her family.

Michelle enrolled in Goodwill’s GED program in 2023. So far, she has passed three sections of the test and hopes to complete the fourth soon. While enrolled in GED classes, Michelle participated in a Subsidized Work Experience at the Goodwill Retail Outlet Center to enhance her job skills. This experience gave Michelle the confidence she needed to develop a plan for her future employment. With the support of Goodwill, Michelle was hired by Walmart as a full-time digital shopper!

Goodwill is incredibly proud of Michelle’s determination to expand her education and support her family. Congratulations, Michelle!

Meet Brianna, a graduate of Goodwill’s education program!

Brianna sought Goodwill’s services to finish her education for free. Her teacher, Kim, says that she was an excellent student who participated in class and worked hard outside of class to meet her goals while still working her regular job. Brianna’s advice for incoming students is: “It might be hard, but keep pushing yourself and never give up. It’s all worth it at the end. You can do it!”

Now that she has her High School Equivalency Diploma, Brianna hopes to work in healthcare! Congratulations, Brianna!

Learn more about Goodwill’s education programs here.

Meet Abigail! Abigail immigrated to the U.S. from Guatemala and needed to learn English. She came to Goodwill and was thrilled that we offered our classes for free.

With the help of her teacher Sarah, Abigail learned how to speak English more fluently with the goal of being able to obtain a job. She then began working with Genna, an instructor in Goodwill’s Career Services department, who helped her create a resume and assisted her in her job search and application processes.

Thanks to the help of Goodwill and Abigail’s determination, she was able to land a job. She said, “I am very grateful for this opportunity and didn’t have to pay for class. I learned so much! I even know things that my husband, who is American, doesn’t know about English!”

Learn more about Goodwill’s ESL classes here.

Learn more about Goodwill’s Career Services here.

Meet Tina, a retail associate at the North Hills Goodwill store! Tina started in Goodwill’s Supported Employment Program and was officially hired as a Goodwill team member this past December.

During her time in the Supported Employment Program, Tina appreciated the help and guidance from her job coaches. She learned common workplace skills and felt more confident in her work. Going forward, Tina hopes to continue her career at Goodwill and improve her skills.

Additionally, Tina was recently named Employee of the Month at the North Hills Goodwill store! Tina says, I am happy here at Goodwill and I like helping everyone.”

Learn more about Goodwill’s Supported Employment Program here.

Meet Miranda, a participant in the UPMC Project SEARCH program hosted at Passavant Hospital!

When she started the program, Miranda did not have access to a device at home which limited the activities she could complete outside of the program. Through support from Comcast and in connection with the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania Digital Navigator Network, Goodwill was able to provide Miranda with a new laptop.

A laptop at home will greatly simplify the job search process for Miranda by providing access to essential resources, tools, and opportunities that are crucial for securing meaningful employment. With her new laptop, Miranda feels more confident about her abilities to search for jobs and achieve her goal of competitive employment after high school!

UPMC Project SEARCH is a one-year training program fully immersed in the workplace (UPMC) for high school students with disabilities who are transitioning from high school to work. Learn more here.

Meet Jamal, a GED student at Goodwill! Jamal began classes at Goodwill this October with the goal of expanding his education for better job opportunities. He’s previously worked in flooring and drywall installation but has a dream of training to be a union carpenter, which requires a GED.

Jamal had difficulty applying for jobs using just his cell phone and couldn’t access digital study tools. Goodwill recognized Jamal’s need for a computer and helped him apply for a laptop from Comcast. Jamal is very grateful to be rewarded with a laptop and plans to use it to help study for his GED exams!

Learn more about Goodwill’s GED program here.

Meet Rich, a student in the Goodwill Tech Academy’s A+ CompTIA program!

Rich first came to Goodwill in June 2023 to participate in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ course. After successfully earning the certification, he applied for and was accepted into the CompTIA A+ program. Most recently, Rich passed the first of two exams to earn the A+ credential!

Rich says, “I have found myself more capable of solving problems in my current workplace. I can also troubleshoot problems before they really blow up into larger issues. Having gained the ITF+ and the first part of the A+ has also increased the esteem I have in my workplace.” Congratulations, Rich!

Learn more about the Goodwill Tech Academy to begin your IT career here!

Meet Yvena, a student in our English as a Second Language (ESL) Program!

Yvena immigrated to Pittsburgh from Haiti last March and came to Goodwill seeking ESL classes. Her determination to learn English over the past year has opened up many doors for her, including helping her obtain employment at West Penn Hospital. When asked about her experience at Goodwill, Yvena said, “I like Goodwill because it gives me the ability to learn!”

Recently, Yvena was part of an ESL tutoring group that received laptops to help her further her education and make the Internet more accessible. We’re incredibly proud of Yvena’s dedication to learning English!

Learn more about Goodwill’s ESL program here.

Meet Eric, a student in our English as a Second Language (ESL) Program!

Eric sought Goodwill’s services after immigrating to Pittsburgh from Peru, specifically with his pronunciation and vowels. His goal is to improve his English to help him in his job as a waiter. When we asked Eric about his experience at Goodwill, he said, “Goodwill is a very good place to learn English!”

Recently, Eric was part of an ESL tutoring group that received laptops to help him further his education and make the Internet more accessible. We’re incredibly proud of Eric’s dedication to learning English!

Learn more about Goodwill’s ESL program here.

Meet Colby, a Project SEARCH graduate working in UPMC Passvant’s Environmental Services (EVS) department!

This past November, Colby received the Support Services of the Year Award for his commitment to two of UPMC’s core values, Responsibility and Integrity. When presented with the award, Colby was described as “the heart of the EVS department, and his excitement is infectious. Colby takes pride and responsibility in his role, and the EVS team can always count on him to work hard and complete the assigned task. . .Colby can be seen throughout the facility working on different projects and has proven to be one of the most dependable associates in the EVS department. He leads by example by demonstrating a willingness to assist whenever needed and ensure the job is done correctly.”

In addition to meeting his employment goals, Colby had the goal of obtaining his driver’s license. He recently passed his driver’s test and can now drive himself anywhere he wants. Congratulations, Colby!

UPMC Project SEARCH is a one-year training program fully immersed in the workplace (UPMC) for high school students with disabilities who are transitioning from high school to work. Learn more here.

Meet Ty! In August of last year, Ty joined Goodwill’s Mental Health Transitional Employment (MHTE) Program in Fayette as a way to take their life in a more positive direction again. They were placed in the toner/cartridges recycling department and flourished in a low-stress work environment. This past September, Ty officially completed their training in the MHTE Program!

During their time in the MHTE Program, Ty maintained a positive attitude and dedicated work ethic. In fact, Ty was so successful that they were hired by Goodwill upon their completion of the program! Ty notes that their Goodwill experience “gives me the helping hand to take care of my family and helps me to grow as a person.”

Goodwill’s Mental Health Transitional Employment Program offers support to individuals whose employment success may be impacted by their mental health. Participants are offered the opportunity to gain foundational work skills to be competitive in the workforce, through Goodwill’s community-based janitorial, retail, and cartridge recycling programs. Learn more here.

Meet Sydney, a recent GED graduate at Goodwill! Sydney enrolled in our in-person classes last June with a clear goal of graduating and securing a fulfilling job. One standout feature that she appreciated was the small class setting, which allowed for individualized focus and attention. Additionally, Sydney expressed her gratitude for her instructors and their role in helping her pass her exams. After months of hard work, Sydney graduated last week and will celebrate in cap and gown on October 5th! Congratulations, Sydney!

Learn more about Goodwill’s GED classes here.

Meet Alexis, a participant in Goodwill’s EARN Program! Alexis has always wanted to be a nurse but struggled to complete her education at the California University of Pennsylvania. Later, Alexis decided to enroll in Pittsburgh Technical College’s (PTC) Practical Nursing Program and reached out to Goodwill for assistance.

As a mother of two, Alexis knew she needed to find balance in her schooling and parenthood to succeed. Goodwill’s EARN Program supported Alexis’s education by providing childcare to her two children, transportation, financial assistance, and more. Despite her busy schedule, Alexis remained focused on her goal and took advantage of the tools offered to her.

Alexis graduated from PTC’s Practical Nursing Program on June 29th, 2023. Goodwill and the EARN team are proud of Alexis’s perseverance and her ability to recognize her POTENTIAL!

Learn more about Goodwill’s EARN program here.

Paula, a participant from the Center For Employment Opportunities, joined Goodwill’s Give Back Program because she needed an outfit for her upcoming job interview at River’s Casino. Goodwill provided Paula with Goodwill gift cards to help her find the perfect outfit! Paula writes, “Goodwill helped me tremendously. I felt more confident going into my interview, knowing I looked the part.”

Goodwill’s Give Back Program provides gift cards to local organizations to give to individuals needing immediate help. Giving people the ability to shop for themselves in a time of need builds confidence to help them succeed in the future. Learn more here.

Meet Clovia! She came to Goodwill in 2021 to earn her High School Secondary Diploma. Right away, our instructors knew that Clovia would have no trouble earning her HSE! She participated in every class and led class discussions. Soon Clovia began taking her exams, then tragedy struck. Clovia and her family lost their home and their belongings in an apartment fire. Despite this unfortunate circumstance, Clovia forged on. While searching for a new place to live, she remained dedicated to her education and continued to attend class. 

Clovia has advice for anyone interested in High School Equivalency: “It’s never too late to try. Age is just a number. Don’t ever give up on your goals. Perseverance is key. If anybody had a reason to postpone or pause, it was me. There was the fire, my husband, but I knew what I wanted and I stayed true to that. Thanks to Goodwill for this opportunity of a lifetime and for helping us achieve even when we want to give up. I didn’t know this was possible.”

Clovia is currently working for UMPC. She is pursuing Medical Assistant training now that she has her HSE diploma. Goodwill is proud of Clovia for her perseverance and recognizing her own POTENTIAL to succeed! 

Learn more about Goodwill’s education programs at https://goodwillncwv.org/education

Meet Skyler! Skyler first came to Goodwill through the YouthWorks Retail Traning Program, which helps prepare and train individuals for a job in retail. Goodwill worked with Skyler to help him become more comfortable working in a store, and he successfully completed the program three months ago!

After completing the Retail Training Program, Skyler was hired as a retail associate at the Lawrenceville Goodwill store! He says he looks forward to earning his own income and hopes to move into his own place someday.

Skyler’s favorite Goodwill Core Value is COMMUNITY because it makes work more enjoyable and manageable. When he isn’t at work, Skylar enjoys studying, reading, and contemplating life. Goodwill helped Skyler recognize his POTENTIAL and gave him the training needed to succeed!

Learn more about Goodwill’s YouthWorks Retail Training Program at https://goodwillncwv.org/impact-retail

Meet Marla, a donations processor at the West Mifflin Goodwill store! Last month, Marla participated in the 2023 Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games at Seven Springs. In total, she ended up winning two gold medals, both in skiing!

Marla started as a program participant at Goodwill and then was hired as a part-time team member over 15 years ago. Goodwill is proud of Marla’s accomplishments and her ability to reach her full POTENTIAL!