From Recovery to Redemption: How Skylar Found Purpose at Goodwill
Sometimes, a second chance is all it takes to change a life. For Skylar, that chance came when he walked through our doors and he hasn’t looked back since.
A New Beginning
When Skylar arrived at Goodwill in July of 2024, he carried a renewed sense of hope. After spending most of his adult years battling alcoholism and coming close to losing everything, he had just completed a year-long recovery program. That experience gave him the strength and confidence to embrace a sober future. He was ready for the next chapter. He wanted it to mean something.
A Career With Purpose
Before his recovery, Skylar spent sixteen years in telecommunications. By most measures, he was successful. But the long hours and constant travel left him feeling empty. He realized that a paycheck cannot replace real happiness.
He had heard that Goodwill was a second-chance employer, an organization rooted in the community and committed to helping people transform their lives through work. He decided to take a chance on a new direction and applied.
Starting at the Doorstep of Opportunity
Skylar joined the Laurel Square team as a donor greeter. It was an entry-level position, but his positive attitude and strong work ethic stood out from the start.
His dedication opened the door to a keyholder position at the Laurel GGC location. He accepted with gratitude.
With guidance from his team leader, Staci, Skylar learned the daily operations of the store. Through her mentorship, he began to grow, both as an employee and as a person.
Rising Through the Ranks
Skylar’s journey at Goodwill has been marked by steady growth and increasing responsibility.
August 2025: Skylar earned a promotion to Assistant Team Leader (ATLC).
Shortly after: He joined the team at our Honore location, where he now works alongside a supportive group of colleagues who believe in him as much as he believes in them.
Building a Future in IT
Skylar has set his sights on a long-term goal: joining Goodwill’s Information Systems (IS) department.
He is already working to make that dream a reality. Through Goodwill’s Learning and Development programs, Skylar has taken full advantage of the courses offered to employees. He earned his CompTIA A+ certification and is now working toward his CompTIA Network+ certification, key credentials on his path to a career in IT.
The Power of Work
Throughout his journey, Skylar has experienced Goodwill’s mission firsthand. He is living proof that lives can change through the power of work. He is grateful every day to be part of an organization that helped him discover both hope and purpose.
Be Part of Stories Like Skylar’s
Skylar’s story is one of many. Every day, Goodwill empowers individuals to overcome barriers, build careers, and transform their lives.
You can help write the next success story.
- Shop at your local Goodwill. Every purchase supports job training and employment programs.
- Donate gently used items. Your donations create jobs and fund mission services.
- Hire our graduates. If you’re an employer looking for dedicated team members, we can help.
- Join our team. Ready to start your own journey? Click here to explore careers at Goodwill.
Together, we’re Changing Lives Though the Power of Work, one job at a time.
