Triad Goodwill Success Story: Samantha B
Some may call her “Sam” others may call her “Samantha” but one thing everyone can agree to call her is “determined.”
In 2018, just two months after relocating to North Carolina from New Jersey Sam learned about Triad Goodwill’s Careers On The Outside program from her neighbor. “I was walking through my apartment complex, and my neighbor told me about the Careers On The Outside program, and suggested I check it out- so I did,” Sam recalls with a smile.
Upon completing the program, Sam was offered a part-time position with a company outside of Goodwill, but she needed a full-time position. She reached out to Candace (Assistant Production Manager, Triad Goodwill) and was able to join Triad Goodwill’s Work Experience (WEX) Program, full-time. While working in WEX, Sam attended a Goodwill job fair and was offered a full-time position in home healthcare.
“I knew I wanted to do more and needed something I was passionate about. I also needed something that was family-friendly,” explains Sam. “I learned there was a full-time production position open on Candace’s team, so I applied and got the job! I was elated and so happy to be back amongst my Goodwill family again.” But being Sam she made herself a goal – “I made myself a goal to be promoted within my first year. I wanted to be seen as a leader by assisting management with special projects and meeting deadlines. I was able to assist wherever needed.”
In 2022 Sam was promoted to an Intake Specialist with the Career Development Services team. “I received words of encouragement and support to apply from Candance and Chris Gorham (President & CEO, Triad Goodwill). That’s when I knew all my determination was worth it.”
For those who are reluctant to visit Triad Goodwill for career assistance Sam shares this piece of advice: “We all need help at times, don’t be ashamed. Receive the assistance and do something positive with it. Goodwill has a lot to offer, not only for employment but for other resources.”
Sam has found an organization that works with and supports her determination, and she shares that, “she’s finally found a place where being a go-getter and a helper doesn’t work against my growth.”