Bryce

One summer night in June, Bryce was hanging out with his friends when he was involved in a car accident where he suffered life-altering injuries.

After going through the pain and trauma of the accident, he was convinced that this was not going to keep him down.

Bryce entered the WAT Program to discover the type of employment he is physically able to do. (WAT Program is a 6-week program to assess an individual’s skills and capabilities in a work environment).

Throughout the program, Bryce has found a genuine friendship with Brian and Austin in the E-Commerce Department. They have taught Bryce valuable lessons that Bryce will always remember.

“I love the people I work with at Goodwill. Brian and Austin are amazing people. They have taught me all about hard work and respect because they exhibit these characteristics every day,” Bryce explained with a huge grin.

Vanessa

If you have browsed through the aisles of the Sioux City Goodwill lately, you might have noticed a bright, bubbly individual stocking the sales floor with the newest and best merchandise. Vanessa works hard at being observant and making sure the sales floor looks clean and organized.

“I like stocking the clothes and processing the clothing through donations. I like to work and get away from home for a little while. Working at Goodwill has helped me learn how to get along with people and treat them with respect,” Vanessa explains with a smile.

Vanessa is successfully progressing through the Pre-Vocational Training Program and is currently working on being more open and asking questions when she doesn’t understand something or needs help.

Cheryl

As you walk into the Sioux City Goodwill, beautifully designed displays will catch your eye. Each display is intricately designed by Cheryl who has an exquisite eye for detail.

“If you are looking for something you will probably find it at Goodwill. I love to shop here as well. I will complete the Pre-Vocational Training Program in December and I am proud I have learned to be more independent in my job. I am currently in the process of moving from a group home into my own home.”

Sheryl’s Shining Light is An Integral Part of the Rapid City Team

“Nothing is impossible if you keep going. It is all about moving forward and taking one day at a time. When I first started Goodwill, I had been out of the workforce for 3 years due to a stroke. It was hard for me because I have been stubborn my whole life and now, I had to change. I entered the Work Adjustment Program* at Goodwill where Jill assigned me to work in the retail store cleaning up dressing rooms, helping with Job Fairs, and supporting the Shoe and Mitten Program, as needed.

One of the significant lessons I learned during the program is not to get so excited and let it go. Someone is there to help when I need it. I completed the Work Adjustment Program about a year ago and was hired to work as a Retail Associate in the store. I am excited to be involved in other parts of the store. I would like to change it up what I do every once in a while. I love working at Goodwill. They have been good to me.”

Jill, Program Manager added, “Sheryl is really happy doing what she does in the store right now. I’ve seen so many good changes in her and I just hope for more and more!”

*Work Adjustment Program is a 6–12-week program for individuals over 18 years of age teaching soft-skill development and employment readiness serving individuals with brain injury, physical injury, and cognitive disabilities, and health challenges. 

GEM Award Winner-Demico

Congrats to Demico, Retail Associate at our Sioux Falls Norton store, on receiving the GEM award. GEM Awards are giving to Team Members who go the extra mile and demonstrate excellent customer service, superb team excellence, process improvement and Goodwill spirit. Nominated by Klari, Job Center Representative “Demico goes the extra mile by making sure everyone is having a good day. If you ask him to look for something specific he will take the time to look for it. Demico always has a smile on his face and has positive words for everyone