March is Indiana Disability Awareness Month, a time to recognize the many ways people with disabilities strengthen our workplaces and our communities. It is also a moment that reminds me why the work we do at Goodwill matters so deeply.

Every day across our organization, I see team members who believe in something simple but powerful: that every person deserves the opportunity to succeed.

At Goodwill, we meet people at many different points in their lives. Some are navigating disabilities. Others are overcoming barriers related to transportation, housing, education or past experiences that have made it harder to find a job. What they share is a desire to work, to contribute and to build a future.

I often think about people like Adonis and Peter, hardworking individuals who had goals and set out to achieve them. With the support of our team and the right training, they were able to build skills, gain confidence and have successful careers here at Goodwill.

Stories like Adonis and Peter’s are not rare here. They happen every day because of the dedication of Goodwill employees who believe in our mission and show up ready to help someone move forward.

Whether you are working in one of our stores, supporting programs behind the scenes, partnering with employers, or helping donors understand the impact of their generosity, your work plays an important role in creating opportunity for others.

During Indiana Disability Awareness Month, I’m especially proud of how our team recognizes the strengths people bring with them. At Goodwill, we don’t define individuals by the barriers they may face. We focus on helping them hone their abilities, set goals and reach their full potential.

And that is something worth celebrating this month and every month. To learn more about Goodwill’s mission services and programs, visit goodwillindy.org, and for employment opportunities, visit https://www.goodwillindy.org/careers/.