Rachel Hendrickson knew the direction she wanted to take her life, but she needed help crafting a plan. After six years employed as a retail associate at Goodwill, she began working with a career and life coach at Goodwill — also known as a Guide. Together, they charted a path to accomplishing her goals of getting a driver’s license, owning a car and being promoted to Team Leader.

“When Rachel expressed the desire to become a Team Leader, we discussed what she needed to work on to get there, and she took action,” said Pam Edney, Site Leader at Rachel’s store.

Since Rachel lacked access to a vehicle, the Goodwill Guides program paid for her driving lessons. Her Guide showed her how to be more intentional when budgeting, allowing her to save for a car. In the meantime, the managers at her store helped her build confidence in her own leadership abilities.

“Everyone at work was supportive as I prepared for my driver’s exam,” Rachel said. “Within a week, I got my license, a car and a promotion! Things had finally turned around for me.”

Rachel is proud of her successes and brings this momentum with her into the new year. 

“It would be impossible for me to overstate the positive impact working at Goodwill has had on me,” Rachel said. “With the support of my coworkers and the Goodwill Guides, I've gained skills that have helped me in every area of life. Next year will be even better!”