We all deserve to be respected and treated as a human. This is a basic human right. Denise had a humiliating experience at a former employer. The management yelled at Denise in front of customers and forced her to work on days she wasn’t scheduled. Denise didn’t feel comfortable speaking up and felt her confidence drastically declining. Sadly, this all led to Denise’s mental breakdown.
Denise needed help. She knew she couldn’t be alone in her journey of gaining back her confidence. She was referred to Goodwill’s Pre-Vocational Job Training Program to gain soft skills to become more comfortable working a job in the community.
“At first, Denise was nervous,” Christine, Skills Trainer, observed. She was assigned to scanning books in E-Commerce. After a few weeks, Denise started making strong connections to fellow participants. They were able to relate to past experiences and common interests. Denise knew she found her support system.
A few weeks ago, Denise was asked if she would like to work at the reception desk, answering the phone and greeting visitors. Denise agreed. She was excited, but anxious about starting something new. Denise knew she needed to find a way to cope with her anxiety and nerves. That day, Denise wore a necklace that had her brother’s ashes. “My brother was the bravest person I knew. He battled sickness with strength until he passed away. If he can be brave, I can be brave too”, proudly stated Denise. At the end of the day, Denise had the biggest smile on her face and knew her brother was with her.
One of Denise’s goals is to pursue her passion for photography. Denise loves photography. The feeling she receives when she crafts the perfect photo is indescribable to her. Denise operated her photography studio for 20 years and attended the New York Institute of Photography online. She is dedicated to her passion and wants to continue pursuing photography in the future. “When I complete the program, I want to apply for an e-commerce position. I will be able to pursue my passion and work with people I have strong relationships with”, she exclaimed.
Denise appreciates the support she has received throughout the Pre-Vocational Job Training Program. “Goodwill has helped me in many ways. I have gained my confidence back and have learned how to communicate and speak up for myself,” explained Denise about the significant impact Goodwill has had on her life.