Evelyn Serina Cole

Moody Gardens Holiday Media Tour - On-air interview with Good Moring Texas, Dallas.

Maria Cienfuegos is a shining example how empowering work skills can transform life both on and off the job, creating a happier more satisfying life.

Maria first became connected with Goodwill through Vocational Adjustment Training (VAT) at Waco ISD. Maria completed the classroom trainings with VAT and moved into Work Adjustment Training (WAT) within the Goodwill retail store.

The WAT program requires 25 elevation hours and 100 work hours. Throughout the program, Maria was expected to perform the same duties as Goodwill employees, but had the additional support of her Success Coach during the time of the program. While many participants work in donations or production, Maria completed her hours in the retail store. In fact, Maria excelled in her role completing 100 hours ahead of schedule and exceeding expectations. Once completing her WAT hours Maria applied and was hired as a Heart of Texas Goodwill part-time Customer Service Associate.

Maria loves her job at the local Goodwill Retail Store. She likes working with the clothes, shoes, and other items displaying them to their best advantage for a great customer shopping experience. Her former Success Coach - now colleague - is thrilled to see Maria blossom with increased social and verbal skills. Marias's supervisors appreciate her ongoing commitment to request the support and collaboration she needs to be successful at her job.

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The Heart of Texas Goodwill Industries Work Adjustment Training offers paid work experience for individuals who have difficulty obtaining or maintaining employment. For more information about the program, please visit https://bit.ly/HIOTGW_OperationGoodJobs.

Bobby Johnson is proof that with the right support and respect, people can transform their lives.

A Vietnam Veteran, Bobby suffered immense loss at 21 when friendly fire left him the leader of 32 men, 12 of whom survived. Struggling with survivor's guilt and undiagnosed PTSD, he faced harsh responses transitioning to civilian life, leading to anger, resentment, and distrust of leadership. After losing 75+ jobs, Bobby was diagnosed with severe PTSD and deemed unemployable.

In 2007, Bobby found support through the Waco VA Hospital, where he began healing. Referred to Goodwill’s Veterans Program, Operation Goodwill, Bobby worked with a Success Coach to build his resume and land the job he wanted. Now employed as a cut-out bus driver with Waco Transit, Bobby is proud to go to work each day with purpose and a smile. Through the power of work, Bobby found a life worth living.