Navy Vet Rediscovers Promising Future

Coming out of his Navy enlistment, Michael started off on a solid path. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration at San Diego State University and completing the paralegal program.

Unfortunately, life didn’t turn out as he expected. Michael found support returning to family in Las Vegas, but when it came to suitable employment, he struggled to find an opportunity that would help him move forward with confidence. Michael found himself feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, and overcome with anxiety.

Seeking inspiration, Michael attended a community resource event where a Goodwill Career Services manager invited him to attend an orientation. The exchange reminded Michael of his prior positive experience with Goodwill services while in Las Vegas a decade earlier.

At the orientation, Michael was introduced to a veteran career coach, who subsequently discussed his employment goals and frustration with his lack of progress. Michael envisioned a return to the legal field and or a role supporting veterans like himself.

Seeing his potential, the Goodwill job development team advocated for Michael, securing an interview for an entry-level position at Veteran Benefit Guide. Michael so impressed at the interview that he was offered a position as an intake specialist, a higher-paying position working directly with veterans trying to obtain benefits.

The offer restored Michael’s positive outlook and confidence to step through doors as they open to new opportunities. He is deeply grateful to Goodwill for providing needed services, professional support, and, most importantly, results at not one but two critical times in his life.

Reflecting on his journey, Michael is inspired

by a quote from Winston Churchill: “Never, never, never, never…never give in.”

Goodwill helped Michael rebuild his confidence.

Learn how Goodwill’s Career Services and Veteran Services can work for you.