The Goodwill Difference: Local Stories of Success
Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona has been changing lives and strengthening communities for over fifty years. While many know Goodwill for its thrift stores, few realize that every donation and purchase supports local job training, youth mentoring, and employment programs that create lasting opportunities for Southern Arizonans. Behind every success story is a person who found encouragement, purpose, and a path forward through Goodwill’s programs. Today, we’re proud to share two inspiring stories that reflect what Goodwill truly represents—hope, hard work, and the power of community support.
Cookin’ Up a Success Story
By Ariel Romero, YARP Case Manager
Efrain joined Project Restore as a high school graduate carrying significant life challenges, including prior justice involvement and profound family loss both before and during his enrollment. He tragically lost his mother in a car accident, followed by the loss of his father to cancer two years later. He entered our program while facing an active court case. While on pretrial, he made the intentional decision to engage with Project Restore, participate in mentoring groups, obtain credentials, and connect with Reengagement Supervisor Isaiah.
During this period, Efrain experienced the loss of his brother-in-law just prior to a group session. Rather than disengaging, he chose to remain, seek support, and process his grief before returning to be with his family. Throughout his time with us, he earned both his Flagger and OSHA 10 certifications.
Efrain also completed a Work Experience (WEX) placement as a Cook Apprentice with Chef John. Then he committed to furthering his education by enrolling in an eight-week program with GAP Ministries where he earned his Culinary Training Program credential. Isaiah and I had the privilege of attending Efrain’s graduation alongside his family, where graduates prepared and served the meal. This journey is a powerful reminder that it truly takes a village to make a difference in someone’s life.
New Year, New Me, New Job
By Neal Carter-Du Lac, Career Navigator Midvale Career Center
Meet Sara – one of the most dedicated clients I have worked with at the Midvale Career Center this year. She always comes into the center with a positive attitude and bright smile, even as she faced challenges finding a job. She finally found success right before Christmas. With a smile on her face through it all, Sara worked through barriers from her past, navigating a job market where she competed with younger applicants, and many interviews that didn’t result in viable offers. But just before holidays she called the Midvale center to share exciting news that she accepted a position at Lowe’s as a freight stocker! I am so proud of her patience and perseverance from applying to interviewing and now taking that leap into the working world! Making an impact in people’s lives is what keeps my heart humble and my passion for people alive.
