Meet Eric Schlegel, Vice President of Operations for Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana. Eric has served Goodwill for over a decade, beginning as a Senior Director for Goodwill’s Outlets and E-Commerce divisions. In his current role, Eric works across the entire organization to help ensure our operations teams are set up for success in both our business and our mission every day. 

We recently sat down with Eric to chat about the COVID-19 vaccine and how the vaccine’s availability has impacted Goodwill’s operations. 

How has the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine affected the day-to-day operations of Goodwill’s retail division?
Since the vaccine has become available, we have seen a steady and continued decline in the number of COVID-19 cases within our retail division. Furthermore, the ability for our community at large to become vaccinated has allowed for a slow and steady removal of restrictions which ultimately has had an enormously positive impact on our in-store traffic. The revenue made from our retail stores all goes right back into the communities we serve through our unique mission and education programs, so an increase in customer traffic means we can help change more lives.  

Have you decided to get the COVID-19 vaccine? Why or why not? 
Yes. I chose to get the vaccine to protect myself, my family and friends, and to protect all those I have the opportunity to interact with each and every day. 

What was receiving the vaccine like? 
The vaccination process was very simple and only took about 30 minutes. It was a very similar experience to the flu shot I receive each year.  After the first shot, I had about one day of mild arm soreness, but that was it. After the second shot, I had one day of mild arm soreness and went to bed at 8:30 p.m. the night I received it. After I woke up the next morning, I felt great.  

What was one thing you learned about the COVID-19 vaccine that surprised you? 
The efficacy of the vaccine against not just COVID-19 but also against the myriad of variants that are now circulating in our community surprised and impressed me.

What would you say to someone who is considering receiving the vaccine? 
I would highly encourage you to get it - for you, your family, and those you come into contact with. 

Thank you, Eric, for your outstanding leadership and dedication to Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana! For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit cdc.gov. To sign-up for your shot today, text your zip code to 438829 or call 1-800-232-0233 to find vaccine locations near you.