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.
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.”
What I like about my job at Bear Country USA is the animals are very entertaining to watch. This job gives me the chance to hug a bear eventually. I will have more opportunities to interact with the animals when taking care of them during the winter.
This picture demonstrates the change that happened for Shane from the beginning of the Work Adjustment Program until the end.
Sometimes in our life, there are moments causing us to pause and reflect on what’s next. Shane was struggling to figure out what work he was interested in when he came to Goodwill’s Work Adjustment Training Program. (The Work Adjustment Program is a 6-week program for individuals over 18 years of age teaching soft skill development and employment readiness. The program serves individuals with brain injury, physical injury, cognitive disabilities, and health challenges.)
Shane was mentored by Jill (Program Manager) who helped
him throughout the program with his confidence. Self-confidence is an essential
skill needed for any job. The Work Adjustment Program helps individuals learn
skills such as self-confidence, communication, and being a team player through on-the-job
experience.
During his training, he was able to help with the Shoe
and Mitten Party, an event sponsored by Goodwill that ensures each child
received new shoes, hat, gloves, and socks. This event touched Shane’s heart
and fueled his desire to help improve the lives of others.
A boost of confidence happened for Shane in January when
he had the opportunity to work in the Job Center. Shane genuinely enjoyed helping people update
resumes and apply to jobs. Jill explained, “Shane loved having the opportunity
to help others as they were seeking employment in the Job Center. He approached
it with a compassionate spirit. His confidence level definitely improved after
his experience in the Job Center because he improved upon his clerical and
customer service skills.”
The last week of Shane’s training, Stan, Rapid City
Manager offered Shane a position in the store. Shane was excited to accept the
offer and is currently working as a Retail Associate.
Reflecting on his experience Shane replies, “The Work
Adjustment Training Program helped me gain confidence and assurance in myself.
It gave me a purpose. I want to continue helping customers and program
participants. I am looking forward to settling down, finding a home and
enjoying my life”
Congratulations to Debra graduating from register training! Debra was anxious about operating a cash register at first. Christine, Skills Trainer, helped Debra learn coping skills to ease her anxiety. After a few weeks, Debra became more comfortable and learned excellent customer service skills. “She has come out of her shell and built important relationships”, Christine commented about Debra’s progress. Debra works in the Sioux City retail store and continues working hard on her goal of obtaining a community job.
