Debora Holmes’s journey with Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana began over 10 years ago, when she joined the organization as a photographer. She had already experienced so much in life, from adopting six of her siblings due to gun violence in the family, to raising two children and taking care of her husband after he fell ill. 

Even after a 15-year career as a lab tech, she was ready to learn and experience more in her professional and personal life. She took advantage of the opportunity to work with Goodwill Mission Coaches, life and career coaches who work with Goodwill employees to help increase their educational attainment, improve their finances and more.

With their support, Debora pursued different job opportunities at Goodwill and learned vital financial literacy skills. Additionally, she earned a scholarship that helped her finish her degree from the University of Phoenix. After serving as an ambassador for Goodwill Nurse-Family Partnership® (NFP) for nearly a year, she knew exactly how she wanted to put her degree to work.

“When I finished college, I knew I wanted to work with mothers,” said Debora.

When the opportunity to become an administrator for Goodwill NFP presented itself, Debora leapt at the chance. After applying and receiving the position, she had the unique experience of talking to first-time parents who were interested in what Goodwill NFP’s program could provide for their new family.

“Goodwill NFP represented hope for parents who needed that,” said Debora. “We listen to them. We supply them with nurses and support like mental health, postpartum education and financial wraparounds.”

As Debora talked with families who wanted to learn more about Goodwill NFP, she felt her calling to work in the field rather than behind a desk.

“I wanted to have boots on the ground, meet with families face-to-face and bring in resources for them,” said Debora.

She returned to school, earned her Community Health Worker certification, and a new promotion to the same role within Goodwill NFP. As a community health worker, she connects community resources, such as food pantries and mental health clinics, to the families that Goodwill NFP serves. 

She also works on programming that is beneficial for enrolled parents, such as financial literacy classes and meet and greets. These events and opportunities for parents are only bolstered by Debora’s certifications in lactation and car seat safety.

“Goodwill instilled in me and let me be who I am – an outgoing community health worker,” said Debora.

Although Debora has already achieved so much, she still has other goals that she is striving to complete for herself and the families she serves. Along with developing programming to ensure parents are more informed about housing, she wants to return to school to become a doula, a professional who supports people through childbirth and labor. In the long run, she hopes to open and run a nonprofit that focuses on the nutritional needs of babies and parents.

“I’m 68 years young. I still have things to learn, apply to my life and teach to others,” said Debora. “And I can teach others about hope and Goodwill. Just because you are in a situation doesn’t mean that’s all that defines you. Goodwill can help you get to a better opportunity.”