In 2021, Matthew Rose was diagnosed with Eales Disease, a rare, incurable disease that affects his eyesight by causing the blood vessels to swell shut, which can lead to permanent damage and loss of vision. He also suffered two strokes. 

At the time, he worked four hours per week as a janitor, received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and utilized the Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program (SNAP) to help support his family.

In 2022, Matthew joined Goodwill as a part-time donation attendant, but due to his eagerness to learn and advance, he was quickly promoted to full-time. He was cross-trained in all areas of Goodwill’s retail operation, including cashier, sorter, purger and wares producer. 

He also trained other employees in these tasks before moving onto the role of ShopGoodwill specialist, where he now sorts and identifies items for sale online. Matthew is helping grow and exceed budgeted sales in his department. 

"My experience with Goodwill has been wonderful,” Matthew said. “They take care of their employees.”

Importantly, his job at Goodwill enables him to support his family independently, without the need for SSDI or SNAP.

“I've made a lot of friends and regained my independence working at Goodwill," Matthew said.

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