Goodwill of Central Arizona

Success Stories
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Manuel Andrade sought out assistance from Goodwill in August of 2002. He approached Goodwill with a goal to have a new job and a new life by the New Year, it seemed as though he would have a long and hard walk ahead of him.

Andrade was referred to Goodwill from the Department of Economic Security, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program for training and assistance in overcoming barriers to employment. Among those barriers, Andrade has a condition which seriously affects his feet. Walking, not to mention working, can cause excruciating pain. But with the barriers, Andrade brought something else with him - the will to work and make a new life for himself.

Andrade began his training in the janitorial department at the 16th Street main campus learning the trade of janitorial work and all of the behaviors crucial to maintaining employment. Almost immediately, Andrade began to make great strides toward accomplishing his training goals and was on his way.

Set-backs including increased, debilitating pain in his feet and legs overwhelmed Andrade and he considered leaving his training program and Goodwill’s assistance. Through the encouragement of his case manager and help from a Goodwill counselor who provided Andrade with special boots to make standing and walking tolerable, Andrade persevered and decided to forge ahead and stick with his training program.

In October 2002, Andrade talked about his experience at Goodwill, saying that he finally understood what professional meant, because he had worked with professional people at Goodwill. He had pride in his work ability, which he had not had for a very long time. He discussed keeping in touch with supervisors and the importance of good communication skills. By December of 2002, Andrade had completed his training program and was job-ready.

Andrade currently works as a full-time janitor at the Peoria Goodwill Thrift Store and Workforce Development Offices. He is responsible for cleaning the entire building and is credited with significantly improving the appearance of the building. Through the help of Goodwill, Andrade realized his goal and is now living an independent and fulfilling life.