Goodwill’s Mission in the Coastal Empire Produces Success Stories
(SAVANNAH, GA) Michael Dixon came to Goodwill of the Coastal Empire in early June, a referral from Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation. Dixon, store clerk, had more than five years of work experience, but after a lay-off at a local grocery chain it was essential that he gain additional communication and conflict resolution skills. Goodwill’s two-month work adjustment training was the perfect program to equip Dixon with skills that would make him more employable. Now employed, Dixon can look back at 2014 and see how his life has changed since he met Goodwill.
Through Goodwill Mission Services, Dixon was offered an opportunity to work in two different work environments. He performed on-the-job training in a warehouse production, area as well as in a custodial services atmosphere. “During each of these assignments he proved himself to be a valuable part of the team,” explains his then-case manager Michael Whitfield.
Dixon learned a variety of skills including proper work etiquette, timeliness, the ability to receive professional feedback and how to work effectively with others. Whitfield, now-Director of Mission Services says Dixon displayed a good work ethic and sought out additional work when his tasks were completed. He worked hard to accomplish the individual goals that he established for himself and kept in close contact with his Goodwill case manager to solve issues that arose.
Once his training was complete, Dixon wanted to continue working with Goodwill. The successful completion of training assisted Dixon in gaining an interview for a job opening at Goodwill. As a result of his hard work and determination, Michael was able to successfully secure a position for himself as a Goodwill production team member in September. His supervisor reports that Michael is a hard worker, enjoys his job and is happy to be part of the Goodwill family.
About Goodwill of the Coastal Empire
Goodwill of the Coastal Empire, Inc. is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization with over 850 employees. In 2013, Goodwill provided services to 19,518 people and placed 1,672 into employment. Goodwill serves 33 counties in Georgia and South Carolina, operating 19 retail locations, and nine Job Connection Centers. Goodwill accepts tax deductible donations of clothing, household items, computers, and car donations, as well as operates an online store at www.shopgoodwill.com. For more information on Goodwill of the Coastal Empire, please visit www.goodwillsavannah.org . Find us on Facebook: Savannah Goodwill or follow us on Twitter: @SavGoodwill.
About Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation
Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, it is about the people we serve. Our goal is to make Georgia the very best State in the Union for persons with disabilities regarding employment and independence. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) provides services to help eligible persons with disabilities prepare for, start and maintain competitive employment, thus becoming productive and independent citizens in their communities. VR has more than 35 offices statewide with expert teams who work in the community and have in-depth knowledge of both the marketplace and the support services available. Customers are therefore able to benefit from opportunities tailored to their specific needs.
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
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