Goodwill New Beginnings is Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana’s reentry program, offering resources, wraparound support and intensive case management services to those who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. This program not only helps program participants secure healthcare and housing, but also helps them develop the skills and preparation they need to progress professionally.

Megan Wise, a graduate of the program, has been able to grow immensely due to her participation in Goodwill New Beginnings.

She began her journey with Goodwill in August 2020, following her release from incarceration. Megan was uncertain about how to rebuild her life and what steps she needed to take to move forward from her past. Recognizing her concerns, her parole officer recommended she explore employment opportunities at Goodwill, a second-chance employer.

Megan was hired as an assembler for Goodwill Commercial Services. Shortly after, she was introduced to Goodwill New Beginnings to develop the skills and knowledge needed for both personal and professional growth.

“When I learned what Goodwill New Beginnings was, it sounded great!” said Megan. “What really interested me was gaining the skills I needed to get back into the workforce and how to sell myself to employers.”

When Megan graduated from the program in 2021, she had a new outlook on life and was ready to take on new challenges at work. She was promoted twice within the same year, eventually earning a role as a line lead and held that leadership position for over three years.

“Sometimes it feels surreal to have reentered,” said Megan. “I’ve just been maintaining my confidence in myself. I have great mentors and a great team. It’s nice to come to a workplace that has open communication and where I can show up and be myself.”

During her time as a line lead, Megan continued to embrace opportunities for growth and became a trusted and respected leader among her peers. In May of 2025, Megan was promoted to Department Supervisor. She’s credited as a passionate, empathetic, and driven leader, and she attributes much of her success to the support systems she found after her release. She sees herself learning and growing in her current role, enjoying the ability she has to help forward the mission.

“I like that we can work and be a part of the community,” said Megan. “We can help employees come to terms with some of the things that are going on in their lives. To be a part of that mission and help people along their journey is really nice -- it makes it all worth it!”

To learn more about Goodwill New Beginnings, visit goodwillindy.org/employment-services.