Success Stories

When you donate and shop at Goodwill Industries of the Greater East Bay, you help change the lives of people here in our community by supporting our job training programs. These programs help people with significant barriers, such as those with a history of generational poverty, individuals recently released from jail, and disabled veterans, gain sustainable employment and a new outlook on living. Click on the images below to learn the stories of just a few successful participants in our job programs.

Sunni Thomas

"I can relate to my clients because I’ve been in the place where they are, receiving benefits, because I was always pregnant (well, at least in the 90’s). I believe that you have to want your life to change and act on that desire, it will not change on its own."

Doug Palmer

“It’s important to have people who really care about what they’re doing. I like that this job gives me the ability to help people and I like supporting a company that gives so many the opportunity to get back to work and live a purposeful life.”

Christina Viliamu

"I do not dwell on my past life, I like to focus on how far I have come to be where I am today."

Bill Erben

"I’m proud of the people we serve every day through Goodwill’s mission. I am happy where I am. I love my job."

Michelle Norton

"That was a huge blessing. Finally, someone wanted to give me a chance."

Jason Miller

"What do I love about my job? Knowing that we are helping people get back on their feet, just like I was helped. I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase my own abilities while helping others reach their potential."

Maria Harral

"This is where I started my career. I want to do something amazing, I want to be like Superwoman."

Anita Tobar

"I thought I’d have to go back to the streets to survive, but just as that thought entered my mind, my phone rang and it was Goodwill."

Raymond Hernandez

"I just had to do what it takes to get my son back."

Shawn Pangelinan

“Goodwill and Calidad have pushed me to improve myself and work hard to be a better person and father.”

Belen Zarate

"I'm excited when I'm here. I get excited about work, I'm motivated to work, it makes a big difference. It's giving me an opportunity to do something with my life."

Eileen Phillips

“My employees have taught me so much. Not only have they taught me compassion and understanding, but take Belen Zarate for example: she takes the time to teach me sign language. They teach me as much as I can teach them.”

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