Helping people prepare for, find, and keep good jobs is what Goodwill is about.
people were provided workforce development and support services in 2023
people placed into competitive jobs in the community
average hourly wage ($) of people placed into jobs through Goodwill
Sep 13, 2018
Success Story
Jeffery
When Jeffery was released from prison, his mind was made up: he would live a simple, honest life. This would be a significant adjustment from his prior lifestyle. Before incarceration, Jeffery enjoyed the high life: he made six figures … he traveled the world. All of that changed overnight. He went from “having it all” to having nothing.
When Jeffery was paroled in April of this year, he was starting over completely. “I needed clothing, identification, employment, housing, you name it … I was facing it,” Jeffery said.
Jeffery was referred to Goodwill’s Offender Success (OS) program and received employment skills training, assistance with his résumé, job search techniques, interview coaching, help with job applications, and more.
Case Manager Josh Keur was impressed by Jeffery’s strong drive. “Jeffery realized that he would need to take what job he could get considering his background,” Keur said. “He set realistic goals and immediately began working to accomplish them.”
His hard work paid off and he landed a job as a sandblaster with Monarch Powder Coating & Sandblasting Services in Muskegon.
Although his new job is completely different from the work and lifestyle he was used to, he enjoys his work. “I like that the job is fast paced and the people here treat you like family,” he said. Jeffery hasn’t missed a day of work and has accepted every overtime hour available. When asked about his job performance, Monarch Powder Coating owner Steve Johnson said, “I will take ten more employees just like Jeff Jennings!”
Jeffery attributes much of his success to the Offender Success program. “I’m not sure where I would be without Goodwill and Offender Success,” he said. “The case managers truly care about your success and the program sets you up to succeed; you simply need to apply yourself.”
Jeffrey is a prime example of what can happen when a person is dedicated to change. He gives this advice to anyone who needs to reinvent themselves: “Keep pushing! You will get out of this what you put into it. I am living proof.”
Success Story: Caleb
Caleb’s journey with Goodwill has been nothing short of inspiring. Caleb embarked on a path of skill building that illuminated his determination and kindness. Caleb’s dedication shone through every task.
“Caleb is an extremely hard worker, and he is ready to take on new responsibilities,” says his Career Coach, Meg Barry.
Hoyer receives international sustainability award
Goodwill President and CEO Jeanette Hoyer receives the prestigious Goodwill Industries International Sustainability Champion Award in recognition of her outstanding dedication to advancing sustainable practices and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship within the community.
Employee Spotlight: Kathy Krajkiewicz
For Kathy, Goodwill isn’t just a workplace — it’s her second home. Through her employment at Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Kathy has achieved the dream of homeownership. Kathy’s infectious laughter and smile illuminate every room she enters.
Kathy shares her wisdom: “Find a job and get something you like – like I have at Goodwill.”
Goodwill awarded Barrier Removal and Employment Success grant
Goodwill was recently awarded a $568,595 Barrier Removal and Employment Success (BRES) grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to provide vocational certificate training in HVAC, forklift, and customer service.
Give your time. Change a life.
Become a Goodwill VITA volunteer!
Goodwill VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteers provide free tax assistance to low- to moderate-income workers and families eligible for significant state and federal tax credits.
Make a difference! Help working people claim and keep all the refunds they are entitled to.
No accounting experience required! Volunteers receive FREE IRS training and certification.
Flexible hours! You can volunteer for day, evening, and/or Saturday hours in any of our tax-prep sites.