Goodwill Programs:  South Boulevard JobLink and Basic Computer Skills Class

“I’ve got a new life thanks to the people and programs at Goodwill’s JobLink and to an employer who was willing to give me a chance.”

Individuals who are newly released from prison face many barriers to employment that include a lack of job-seeking skills, a work history and occupational skills in addition to their criminal background. Through its career centers and training programs, Goodwill provides services to individuals re-entering society from incarceration, believing that recidivism is reduced and lives are changed through the power of work.

While in prison, Willie began the first steps to change his life. He obtained a 2-year degree from Stanly Technical College and developed mechanical skills as a sewing machine repairman. After 13 years, Willie was released from prison to a halfway house and faced the reality of finding a job on the outside as an ex-offender. 

The staff at the halfway house referred Willie to Goodwill’s South Boulevard JobLink Career Center. At the JobLink, he took a basic computer and resume writing class. “This class was really helpful,"  Willie said.  

Willie also credits Debra Dixon, his career counselor at the JobLink for helping him address a criminal background in a job application and interview. “Working with Debra was a great experience. She was patient and gave me the confidence that I could succeed.”

Debra told Willie of an opening at Can-Am Custom Trucks and suggested he apply for the position. After a successful interview, Willie went to work at Can-Am as a fabricator/installer in June 2005.

Each morning, Willie is up at four, changing buses three times to get to work on time, but he doesn’t complain, for he loves his job and being a part of the Can-Am team. “Willie is a great employee,” said John Dever, Operations manager. “He made a mistake and paid his debt. He just needed somebody to give him a chance.”

Willie is grateful to Can-Am and values the friendships he’s made over the past two years. "When my wife was in the hospital, my bosses provided transportation and even picked up medicine after she came home.”

On May 17, 2007, Willie was recognized with a Good Work Award for his significant accomplishments at Goodwill’s annual Cornerstone Celebration. Sitting with Willie were his Can-Am family and Debra Dixon from the South Boulevard JobLink.