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Jim loves to work. But
after working at an area packaging plant for 22 years, he was laid off.
So, in order to maintain some structure in his life and keep some money
coming in, Jim was referred to Goodwill's Transitional Support Program.
He began working at the Shiner Warehouse and Logistics Center three
mornings per week with the understanding that he would continue to work
with Vocational Support Services to find a new job in the community. Jim
put in applications and checked out jobs; he did
everything VSS asked him to do, with no luck.
But a funny thing happened on his way to trying to find a new job . . .
Jim realized that he really loved working at Shiner. He liked the work,
his co-workers, the staff - he felt like he belonged there, like he was
one of the gang! After several months of keeping his promise to try to
find another job, Jim raised the question: could he just stay at Shiner?
After some discussion, it was agreed that Jim could stay on at Shiner,
and that Jim's Winnebago County case manager would try to get long-term
vocational funding for him. This could result in Jim's transfer to the
Work Services program, and his being able to work at Shiner as long as
he wished.
Thanks to the efforts of VSS staff and Winnebago County service
providers, and their understanding that vocational dreams come in all
shapes and sizes, Jim got his wish. On August 31st, Jim officially
became a participant in the Work Services program, and was undoubtedly
the happiest guy in the entire Goodwill family! Jim now works five days
a week, and if you ask him how he likes his job at the Shiner Center,
you'll get your answer with a smile that lights up his face. He won't
have to say a word.
Congratulations, Jim! Thanks for bringing The Goodwill Promise to life.
To
learn more about the Transitional Support Program click here.
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