New Lives
Where Your Things Start New Lives
Every item you donate or purchase at Goodwill means opportunity for thousands of people throughout Columbus. Read more about your impact and eight of those stories below.
Pamela
After looking for a fresh start, Pamela started free STNA (State Tested Nursing Assistant) courses through the Goodwill Columbus Workforce Development program. With a bit of determination and a great attitude, Pamela completed the STNA course and began her next best job at Ohio Living, an assisted living rehab facility in Central Ohio. Today, she lightens any room she walks into and is working towards her completion of nursing school.
Cody
While being employed at Goodwill Columbus, Cody began taking IT classes through the Goodwill Columbus Workforce Development program. After Cody excelled in classes and completed the IT training, he obtained an internship at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. That internship has led to a full-time career in IT at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Today, Cody is thriving in both his personal life and career.
Nicole
Nicole joined the Goodwill Columbus team as an unarmed security guard while supporting her two boys. In 2018, she enrolled in the Goodwill Columbus Workforce Development IT training program and completed this rigorous coursework entirely online while raising her children and holding full-time employment. With her A+ IT Certification, Nicole was hired full-time by Goodwill Columbus and continues to provide crucial support in all areas of the business.
Angelica
Angelica began her journey with Goodwill Columbus after being referred by the WEP (Work Experience Program). After the completion of a few required courses, Angelica was offered a position in the Goodwill Columbus Human Resources department. Today, she is a valued member of the team and helps others find their next best job, just like she did.
Vern
Looking for a career change in the ’90s, Vern came to Goodwill Columbus to begin working in unarmed security at the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Throughout the years, Vern worked his way up in the security team, learning along the way. Today, Vern is a Security Manager at the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation in the heart of Columbus and ensures the safety of thousands each and every day.
Kim
Kim came to Goodwill Columbus looking for her next best job. Despite not having a background in technology, Kim began taking IT classes through the Workforce Development program. With a bit of hard work and dedication, Kim completed her courses in the IT program and started her full-time career as a valued member of the Goodwill Columbus team, working in the eCommerce department. Today, Kim is working toward the next step in her career and taking more free courses at Goodwill Columbus.
Robert
Wanting to make a positive change in this life, Robert came to Goodwill Columbus 20 years ago looking for a chance after being previously involved with the justice system. After being turned down from several positions, Robert got the job working on the custodial team at Goodwill Columbus. Today, he is a crucial member of the Goodwill Columbus team, fixing anything and everything that is needed. Robert credits Goodwill Columbus for helping to turn his life around.
Humberto
Humberto attends the Goodwill Columbus Work and Community Services program which empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve independence through the power of work. Through the program, Humberto found employement as a member of the Goodwill Columbus custodial team. Not only has Humberto overcome his disabilities, but he has also overcome a language barrier. Today, Humberto is a valued and hard-working member of the Goodwill Columbus team.
Change A Life
Every donated item we sell helps us teach people the skills they need to end the cycle of unemployment. Find a Goodwill location near you by clicking below.
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