Corey was a hard-working, licensed car insurance agent for 15 years when she heard the heartbreaking news that shook her world. Her mom had cancer. Corey’s mom meant everything to her. Corey needed to decide, would she keep working or take care of her mom? It was an easy decision for Corey. She would stay with her mom and be her support system through this difficult time.
Three years later, Corey lost her mom to a hard-fought battle with cancer. Corey was devastated. “Losing an immediate family member was hard for Corey. She couldn’t gain control and spiraled,” explained Christine, Skills Trainer. “It was a difficult time for me,” Corey acknowledged. To cope with losing her mom, Corey resorted to alcohol. Corey knew she needed help and couldn’t do this on her own. She started therapy and was in recovery when she was referred to Goodwill.
Corey was anxious on her first day of training in the Pre-Vocational Job Training Program. This program offers services for individuals with disabilities or mental illness to support additional soft skill development. Corey had doubts if she would be successful because of her gap in employment. “I was excited to work but I was nervous,” reflecting on her first day of training. Encouragement and support from the entire Goodwill team gave her the courage to carry on.
Corey excelled during the training and was quickly moved from scanning books to reception. After a few weeks, she started working in the store stocking clothing. Vickie, Sioux City Store Manager, noticed Corey’s excellent work ethic. “She is dependable and reliable. If I give her a project, she completes it to the highest level. She makes a difference to me and the team.”
Recently, Vickie asked Corey into the office to ask her an important question. “I have an opening for a Team Lead. Would you like to be my Team Lead? You have the characteristics I am looking for and I would love for you to join us.” Corey didn’t hesitate for a second. She knew she wanted to continue working at Goodwill and be a part of something she is passionate about.
If you walk into the Sioux City store today, you will find Corey with the biggest smile on her face. Her positive energy is contagious, and her optimistic attitude inspires us to believe anything is possible and to never let the past define who you are.