For Gretchen, obtaining meaningful work meant securing a support system dedicated to helping her achieve the right fit. Her employment journey started when Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) referred her to Goodwill, and she was placed in a Community Work Experience at our North Hamilton location.
Retail was a new world for Gretchen, but her Career Consultant, Hollie, jumped in with personalized job coaching. They quickly figured out that Gretchen’s careful, focused approach made her perfect for sizing and processing items. Hollie even made her a laminated sizing strip—a small tool that led to big success!
Gretchen quickly adapted, and after her successful initial coaching period, she excelled in the position. She recently hit the 90-day milestone and now works part-time, handling sizing, running racks, and processing inventory. Her managers especially appreciate her consistent, high-quality work.
She’s proud of her reputation for being efficient and tidy, saying, “I take my time and make sure I do things right.”
Best of all, Gretchen loves her job, enjoys saving money, and is learning new skills.
Her success story affirms Goodwill’s core belief: every person should have the opportunity to work, earn, and build a fulfilling life.
