Success Story - Josh Swartz

“I don’t want to come here.”

Those were Josh Swartz’s words during his
initial visit to Chattanooga Goodwill Industries.
Cerebral palsy, a lack of work experience and
undefined work skills made it difficult for Josh
to find and keep a job, despite the fact that he
wanted to work and be a more independent
person.

Josh, who lives in Hixson at the Hosanna Community for adults with disabilities, has taken advantage of Goodwill’s free job training and skill development programs. His hard work and good attitude have earned him not one but two jobs at the nonprofit: he spends part of his week as a donation attendant at Goodwill’s headquarters on Dodds Avenue, and the rest of his time he works at Goodwill’s transportation warehouse sorting and baling donations and assisting truck drivers on their routes.

“I like working with the drivers best,” he said. “I like being out in the community and working with lots of friendly folks. I like seeing how different people handle business.”

He’s quick to tell people that he doesn’t think his disability affects his work. “I’m a friendly person, and Goodwill gives people with disabilities good work experience.”

“I’m glad I came to Goodwill after all.”