Goodwill Program:  Occupational Skills Training 

Because of a neurological disability, Mark was shy around people he didn’t know and worked third shift as a night auditor to avoid meeting the public. As Mark learned to live with his disability, he gained self-confidence and was finally ready to change his life. 

Mark was referred to Goodwill by the NC Division of Vocational rehabilitation and enrolled in Goodwill’s Occupational Skills Training Program for careers in banking. He excelled in his course work and enjoyed the interaction with his classmates. 

“Everyone liked Mark and many students looked to Mark for help and encouragement,” said class instructor Phil Gaber.  

At graduation, the once shy young man stood confident at the podium as his class representative, expressing his appreciation to Goodwill, his VR caseworker, and his fellow classmates for changing his life. Mark achieved the Highest Items per Hour for his class, and he was elected by his classmates to receive the Team Player Award.

After graduation, Mark received three job offers, and accepted a position with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Charlotte Branch.

“Thanks to Goodwill I feel like my life is just beginning,” Mark said.