Determined Man Rebounds from Adversity

Imani was unemployed and on the verge of homelessness when he came to Goodwill looking to change his life. For a long time, Imani says, he was “not able to live comfortably and humanely,” and he knew that his barriers to employment—such as a lack of transportation and limited work experience—were steep.

Seeing Goodwill’s Stagehand Training program as a gateway to stable employment, a living wage, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, he eagerly enrolled. Imani’s Goodwill career coach noted that he was “willing to put in the extra legwork” to make his goals a reality.

To prepare Imani for a career in the events industry, the program provided essential job training, such as learning to operate scissor lifts, forklifts, and boom lifts. In addition, he earned his OSHA-10 General Industry certification. Goodwill also provided Imani with crucial supportive services throughout the training period to cover clothing and transportation needs. Soon after completing his two-week training, Imani was offered employment at Rhino Staging.

Now, Imani is excited to be able to support himself and is glad that he will finally be “able to keep financial promises.” As for his career prospects, Imani says they are “better than I can imagine.” His greatest hope for the future, he says, is “to become a role model for the younger generation.”

Goodwill led Imani to a new life stage.

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