Success Story: Ashley Y.
If you’ve walked through the doors of Triad Goodwill’s Retail Store in Asheboro you were more than likely greeted with a big smile and a “Welcome to Goodwill” from Ashley. Whether she’s behind the register, stocking shelves, assisting customers, or whatever else the day sends her way as a Shift Supervisor 1, Ashley has a positive attitude and is working hard to ensure her customers and donors have a great experience.
Ashley came to Triad Goodwill in 2010 and her job coach assisted in helping her gain employment as a part-time hanger. Over the course of 8 years she transitioned from part-time to full-time, and in 2018 she moved into the Lead Worker position. In 2022 she was promoted to Shift Supervisor and credits much of her growth and success to not only her hard work, but the leadership she has had over the years.
“If it wasn’t for my long time District Manager, Tad taking time with me and believing in me when no one else would give me a chance- I wouldn’t be where I am,” explains Ashley.
“Tad has been more of a father figure in my life than my own dad. He has pushed me when I needed it, and has helped me grow. He has never stopped believing in me.”
Another leader who has greatly influenced Ashley’s success both at work and personally is her current Manager, Karen. With a big smile, Ashley shared how Karen challenged her (in all the good ways, of course) and taught her to become the leader she is today.
“Over the years I have had several managers that never challenged me in a good way. When I met Karen, she came to the Asheboro store as an Assistant Manager and she gave me the skills and positive encouragement that I had never gotten from any supervisor before,” says Ashely.
“Since Karen has been with me I have grown into a leader and now I can lead others. Karen is different in that she has taught me skills not only for work, but in life in general. My mom passed away in 2020 and that was a hard time for me and my mental challenges. When I told Karen about my mom, she simply asked me if I was ok and if I needed anything. I have never had a manager be concerned about me outside of work. If it wasn’t for Goodwill I wouldn’t have a job, and it wouldn’t be what I was missing in life- family.”
Ashley continues to participate in employee training opportunitues to grow her leadership skills. She’s thankful for the growth and experience she’s gained, and for the programs Goodwill has available to everyone in the community.