Burlington's Success Burlington recently collaborated with Goodwill Opportunity Centers in Chattanooga and Dalton to host a series of hiring events aimed at staffing Burlington store locations, including their new Fort Oglethorpe and Dalton stores. Burlington store managers Forrest Thomasson, Desmond Hubbard, and Carol Kambhampati shared that hosting hiring events with Goodwill proved to be significantly more desirable than holding hiring events at their own stores. “It was such a smooth process. Goodwill Opportunity Center staff members greeted applicants and made them feel welcome, which allowed us to focus on conducting interviews,” said Carol. Attendees were also invited to sign up for Goodwill’s free My Career Advisor online platform, which supports job seekers through every step of their career journey. The platform offers tools and resources for career exploration, resume building, training and education, and access to community resources. The collaboration between Burlington and Goodwill resulted in 132 job placements in our region. “Goodwill Opportunity Centers are a gold mine of a resource,” said Forrest. Desmond added, “I would definitely recommend that other employers reach out to Goodwill for hiring support.” Whether you're a job seeker or an employer in Southeast Tennessee or Northwest Georgia, Goodwill is here to help. Call (423) 629-2501 or visit www.goodwillchatt.org/missionservices.
Kendrick's Success Story Kendrick was looking for an opportunity to work after being unemployed for several years and was told about Goodwill’s training program by a friend. After becoming a participant and completing 400 hours of training, Kendrick was offered a job as a job coach at Goodwill. Kendrick said, “My favorite part of the job is working with the participants. I offer them continuous support and encouragement throughout the program. I also help them overcome any challenges or barriers they are experiencing while they are here.” Kendrick plays a vital role in our Employment and Training Program, where he passionately trains participants in the fundamental work-instilling principles that shape both careers and character. His respect and genuine care shine through in every interaction, creating a ripple effect of positivity and growth. While Kendrick consistently pours into others, we’re especially grateful that he also took time to invest in himself. Partnering with his Mission Integration Specialist, Kendrick worked toward personal goals, most notably, finding a home. “One of my goals was to get my own place because I was in temporary housing. Goodwill helped me. Now I have an apartment, a home,” said Kendrick. That journey reflects the same dedication and heart he brings to our program every day. We couldn’t be prouder of Kendrick and all that he continues to accomplish!
Nikki's Success Story It was Nikki’s first day as a Goodwill employee. She always knew that she wanted a job centered on helping people, but she was still discovering exactly what kind of job that would be. While attending orientation at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus that day, Nikki learned that Goodwill employs a team of mission integration specialists to support, equip, and empower Goodwill employees. After she completed orientation, she met with Travis, her assigned Mission Integration Specialist. “During that meeting, I decided that I wanted to go to college to get a social work degree,” said Nikki. Travis shared information on how to apply for Tennessee Reconnect, a last-dollar scholarship that allows eligible adults to attend community or technical colleges tuition-free. Nikki completed the proper steps and received the scholarship. This fall, she began attending classes at Chattanooga State Community College! “Nikki’s journey is a true example of what dedication and perseverance can achieve,” said Heather, Director of Retail Operations. “She began as a store associate at Goodwill in November of last year. Through her hard work, positivity, and commitment to excellence, she rose to a shift lead position and now serves as an assistant store manager. Nikki leads with heart, inspires those around her, and lives out Goodwill’s core values and guiding principles. Her story is just beginning, and her future is as bright as her impact on our mission.” “Nikki is a determined and resilient individual who never stops striving to exceed expectations,” said Travis. “Her recent enrollment in college and advancement into a new management role are powerful milestones in her journey, and we’re excited to see what she’ll achieve next.” Interested in working for Goodwill? Visit www.goodwillchatt.org/careers to view available positions.
Denice Bizot Denice Bizot loves shopping at Goodwill . “I started thrifting when I was 18 or 19 years old,” said Denice. “I don’t like the thought of something going into a landfill. I’m even wearing some items from Goodwill today. ” Denice doesn’t just look for clothing and household items when she’s thrift shopping. She specifically looks for items she can repurpose. “I’ve always used found objects. I repurpose and reinterpret the things I find ," said Denice. "Recently, I came across some stretched canvas panels at the Goodwill store , and I thought, why not? Art for me involves constant evolution , and I find the idea of doing something different exciting.” *Denice’s artwork is in many private collections, including that of Catherine Zeta-Jones. You can view and purchase Denice’s canvas and metal art at the In-Town Gallery at 26A Frazier Avenue in Chattanooga. The next time you’re shopping at Goodwill, maybe you’ll find something that sparks your creativity. The possibilities are endless! Today is a great day to visit a Goodwill store near you or explore one you haven’t visited before: www.goodwillchatt.org/locations * Metal Sculptor Denice Bizot Turns To Canvas With New Show At The In-Town Gallery
JR.'s Success Story Larry “Jr.” Hall was referred to Goodwill through Vocational Rehabilitation . Junior participated in digital skills classes and completed 400 hours of training . After graduating from training, he began his job as a store associate at the Cleveland Goodwill store . Becky Sneed, Jr’s Vocational Rehabilitation counselor said, “Jr. was always positive and encouraging. I know he loves his job because that is where he can help and inspire others.” Jr. recently celebrated 3 years of service with Goodwill. Congratulations, Jr! At Goodwill , we partner with Tennessee and Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Services to support individuals on their journey to employment. Through our Employment and Training Services , participants may be referred for Vocational Adjustment Training , Job Readiness , and Job Placement support . This program offers individuals valuable time to build essential skills before entering the workforce. Participants receive support and guidance from a dedicated Job Coach, attend classes focused on nutrition , financial literacy , and workplace fundamentals , and develop digital skills to navigate today’s job market. We also provide personalized assistance with interview preparation, resume building , job search guidance , and continued support even after employment begins. Our goal is to empower individuals with the tools, confidence, and encouragement they need to succeed and thrive in their careers. To take advantage of Goodwill’s free career services, fill out the form at www.goodwillchatt.org/missionservices, visit https://www.goodwillchatt.org/OC to find an Opportunity Center, or call us at (423) 629-2501 ext. 7601.
Julia's Success Story Julia’s part-time job was no longer meeting the needs of her growing family. Something had to change. One day, her friend told her about the free career services that are available at Goodwill. The very next day, Julia reached out to Taryn, a Goodwill Opportunity Center Manager . “I had earned an associate’s degree , a bachelor’s degree , and a master’s degree , and I had experience as a grant writer, a marketing manager, and a fitness instructor,” said Julia. “I had all of this education and experience, but I couldn’t figure out how to best portray my varied work experience to employers. ” Taryn listened closely to Julia’s story, helped her organize her education and work history, and created a personalized plan. She provided a professional resume template, coached Julia on how to tailor her applications, and helped her identify transferable skills that she hadn’t yet considered. “It made a huge difference having Taryn on my side during my job search,” said Julia. “Navigating this process on my own had been discouraging. She encouraged me to apply for jobs I hadn’t discovered and even coached me on interviewing skills.” Julia’s job search was finally complete when she accepted a job as a Healthy Living and Wellness Public Health Educator at the Hamilton County Health Department . She is now using her education and diverse experience to make a meaningful impact on our community. “If you are struggling in your job search process, seek help from Goodwill,” said Julia. “They will support your search.” To take advantage of Goodwill’s free career services, fill out the form at www.goodwillchatt.org/missionservices, visit https://www.goodwillchatt.org/OC to find an Opportunity Center, or call us at (423) 629-2501 ext. 7601.
Autumn's Success Story Autumn Burt came to the East Brainerd Opportunity Center seeking help in advancing her career. Autumn was looking for a full-time, sustainable job in administrative work. After working with our Opportunity Center Manager on her resume, cover letter, and interview preparation, Autumn landed a job as an Administrative Office Assistant at Aspen Dental in February. “I love my job and being able to help fulfill the needs of our patients,” she said. In June, she was promoted to Office Manager. "Don't shy away from the opportunity to work with Goodwill," Autumn says, "it can only help you advance your career!" Congratulations Autumn! To take advantage of Goodwill’s free career services, fill out the form at www.goodwillchatt.org/missionservices , visit www.goodwillchatt.org/OC to find an Opportunity Center, or call us at (423) 629-2501 ext. 7601. #goodwillchatt
Hannah's Success Last week, Hannah graduated from our Vocational Adjustment/Work Ready program! She took part in the FUNdamentals of Work classes and completed over 200 training hours. Hannah said she has learned the importance of attendance, punctuality, and consistency throughout her time in the program. Next month, she will start college at Chattanooga State Community College, studying Digital Media Design and Production/Graphic Arts Technology. Congratulations Hannah!
Ellie Bublitz Success Story in collaboration with Goodwill Arkansas
Lexie Dill's Success
Harold Cottrell's Success
Congratulations to our 2024 Annual Award Winners!
