Client Spotlight

When Ann decided to retire from teaching, she began to explore what employment options were available to someone starting a second career and working with a disability. After several months of searching on her own without any success, she contacted the Vocational Rehabilitation Services to see if she was eligible for their services. She was, and it was through their encouragement to pick an employment service provider that she choose to work with Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana, Inc.

“I chose Goodwill because I was impressed with their website and their reputation in Fort Wayne and the surrounding area,” Ann says.

The first step Ann took at Goodwill was improving her job seeking skills. Ann found the training to be a valuable tool.

“I had been employed at my former job for 32 years,” she says, “I quickly discovered that I was unprepared to search for a job in today’s workplace.”

Next Ann and an Employment Specialist began to develop her interview skills by performing mock interviews and discussing how to prepare beforehand.

With newly honed employment skills, Ann found an employment ad and sent in her résumé. However, she received no response, but saw the same ad several weeks later. Undeterred, Ann (with the help of her Employment Specialist) found the name of the Associate Dean of ITT Technical Institute and sent her resume directly to him. Soon after she received a call to set up an interview and was offered the job three days later.

Ann now offers her help to students and staff of ITT by assisting them on computers, helping with research, and finding books and videos. She supervises work-study students and helps train those in the Learning Resource Center. With her new job, Ann was able to supplement her retirement income enough to purchase a home and live independently.

Ann also serves as a board member for Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana.

“I wanted to get involved in a nonprofit organization and volunteer my time to a worthy cause. Since I was a former client, I felt that I had a unique perspective,” she says, “I feel that I am giving back to the community that has served me well.” 

Employer Testimonials

“I have had very good luck with employees referred to me by Goodwill. The employees have been reliable and loyal. I recommend them strongly.”  Kroger General Manager

“The people who Goodwill has sent to us have worked out very well.”  Scott’s Food & Pharmacy

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Goodwill Industries over the past couple of years. I have had nothing but positive interaction with the representatives and they are always willing to be available for any questions, concerns or just to lend some helpful advice.”  Brandon McKee, Baymont Inn Manager

Home  -  Services  -  Donations  -  Shopping  -  Site Map  -  Contact Us

© 2010 Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana, Inc.

Internet Privacy Statement | Terms and Conditions | Accessibility Policy