Can you imagine being misunderstood most of your life? Jon had been in group homes as a teenager and never had someone who believed in him and what he was capable of until he came to Goodwill.
Jon’s family believed he wouldn’t amount to much of anything. He would never get out on his own and be completely dependent on them for everything. Because of this mindset that was instilled in him throughout his life, Jon struggled to find his place.
Several dead-end jobs later, Jon was referred to Goodwill’s Employment Skills Training Program. A 6-week program teaching individuals the hard and soft skills needed to be successful in the workplace. Participants learn essential job skills that they will be able to transfer to a job. Jon’s life changed forever when he found a mentor and friend in Chasity (Employment Specialist).
Jon did various janitorial duties while he learned transferable job skills such as being professional and communicating with co-workers and managers. Chasity saw Jon’s potential because he came to work with a positive attitude and took pride in his job. After Jon’s completion of the program, Chasity helped him get a job at Shopko as a Hardlines Team Associate. At first, it was hard for Jon to fit in with his co-workers and managers. With Chasity’s encouragement, Jon continued to work hard and managed to gain their trust. Jon replies, “These people became my work family and I still keep in contact with them today despite Shopko closing.”
On the last day of work at ShopKo, Jon was presented by Christine, Assistant Manager at Shopko with the Star Service Champion Award. Cynthia told Jon, “We are presenting the Star Service Champion Award to you because you went above and beyond our expectations. You truly went the extra mile for the customers.” At that moment, Jon was in tears. He had never been complimented in his entire life for anything he had done. This was a defining moment for Jon and when he learned, “People in the community see me for who I am.”
One of the goals Jon had when he first started at Goodwill was to move out on his own. Today, Jon has found his own apartment and is becoming independent. “Moving out on his own was a big step for Jon,” explained Chasity about Jon’s progress.
Today, Jon works as a gatekeeper at 1st Class Security. Chasity continues to work with Jon and according to Jon is “a light in his life.” Jon credits Chasity for the support and encouragement she has given him to be the best version of himself.