05/08/2026
Behind every success story is a person who took a chance, worked hard, and kept moving forward. During National Goodwill Week, we’re proud to spotlight one of our incredible board members and the impact meaningful employment can make. 💫
"Before this time, I had attended cosmetology school and dreamed of becoming a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, but my goals weren’t realistic at that time. I worked with a career counselor at SOAR for over a year, completing skills and interest assessments and exploring career paths that fit me better. I even dreamed of opening a coffee shop, but my lack of credit made that impossible.
Around 1994–95, when I was about 24 years old, I went to SOAR Career Solutions (True North Goodwill) and entered their Disadvantaged Homemakers program. At the time, I had no self-esteem, no confidence, and no real support system. I had been to treatment seven times and felt stuck, with a lifestyle that wasn’t helping me move forward. I wanted to be a better version of myself, and I knew that meant making difficult changes—including stepping away from people who were holding me back. My grandparents, who raised me, were the ones who reminded me of a higher power and encouraged me to believe change was possible. Going to SOAR was the moment I decided I had to be part of that change.
With the mission team’s support, I enrolled in school, received help with tuition, and was connected to public assistance. Although it was humbling and difficult to accept help, that support allowed me to get back on my feet and move forward.
Today, I have been married to my husband, Pete, for 19 years, and we have an 18-year-old son, Kyler, who is pursuing a career as a heavy equipment operator with Local 49. We enjoy spending time outdoors near Jay Cooke State Park, fishing, working on home projects, and gardening.
I would recommend to others in the same situation: find that person or place that you can trust. Pick your team. Build your team. When you surround yourself with people you can trust, and you put the hard work in, you can make it."
