Success Through Support

Marcus pictured here with his Goodwill case manager Kaitlin.

Challenged with disabilities, Marcus was unable to benefit from many of the free services offered by Goodwill of Central Illinois. For instance, group settings and job fairs were not activities where Marcus could thrive.

Taking this into account, Marcus’s Goodwill case manager, Kaitlin, decided to focus on developing his soft skills. Together, they worked on things like patience and communication, and increased Marcus’s understanding of the job application process.

While Marcus worked to improve his skills, he began to enjoy the job search process and his confidence increased.

That’s when a representative from the Community Workshop & Training Center (CWTC) contacted Kaitlin. They were looking for employees, and Marcus made an ideal candidate.

Now working alongside a CWTC representative, Kaitlin focused on practical skill development with Marcus. Things such as reading a bus schedule, thus insuring he had reliable transportation to work.

With continued support and encouragement, Marcus was finally ready.

Marcus was accepted into the CWTC program and is now a member of their workforce! He continues to learn, grow and thrive as a member of our community.

Donating to Goodwill may seem like a simple gesture, but it is not. Donating and shopping at Goodwill really does change lives.

Story made possible by Goodwill of Central Illinois