Amarion’s journey with Goodwill began, as so many good things do, with a friend.
“I hadn’t seen him in a year and a half,” Amarion recalls of the day he was sitting on his porch and spotted a friend riding by. A quick wave turned into a conversation, and the friend, who was working at Ohio State University (OSU) through Goodwill, sent him a job link. Within two weeks, Amarion was in, and he’s been with Goodwill ever since.
His assignment at OSU quickly proved to be more than just a job. For years, Amarion has struggled with seizures; stress was a major trigger, and the structure of stable employment offered an unexpected, vital relief.
“This has been my longest time frame without a seizure,” he explained. “Stress was taken off my shoulders; it was the exact thing I needed.”
Amarion’s job at Goodwill offered more than physical relief from seizures – it offered him a space to grieve. Beneath the quiet resolution of the custodial job was a profound heartache. Two and a half years ago, Amarion lost his brother to violence.
His brother left behind four young children, and Amarion has stepped in to help.
“It has been my mission to contribute financially to my family and lead by example,” Amarion said. “But I am not one to ask for help. I needed a break from the heaviness at home, and having this job allows me time away to grieve privately.”
After a year of working at OSU, Amarion transitioned into a security role at the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC). This role ignited an ambition in Amarion to explore a new career path in security and law enforcement. Amarion has obtained his concealed carry license and has plans to achieve his Columbus State Patrol license.
His supervisor is confident in his continued success.
“I think he could do anything he sets his mind to,” said Marcie Racki, Director of Business Services for Goodwill Columbus. “Amarion is honorable, dependable, and reliable.”
For Amarion, Goodwill is the engine of change, a steppingstone to his future. He acknowledges that many only think of Goodwill as a thrift store, but he knows better.
“It’s an organization that takes in anyone and offers them hope,” he explains. “I was that person they took in. I don’t like to depend on anyone. I don’t like to ask for help, but they gave it to me anyway.”
Now, with a clear path in front of him, a steady job that relieves his stress, and a noble goal, Amarion is taking care of his family and building the future he wants, one motivated step at a time.
