At Goodwill, we believe in the power of second chances and the transformative journey each individual can undertake. Today, we turn the spotlight on one of our shining stars, Zackary, who has grown remarkably since joining us in October 2020 as a Sales Floor Team Member at Ranch Lake GGC.
When Zackary first stepped into the world of Goodwill, he was a bit shy and reserved. Call it first-day jitters! His initial role involved gathering carts, and as much as he valued being part of the team, it felt like a stepping stone rather than a launching pad for his potential. However, Zackary wanted to do more than gather carts. He wanted to showcase his skills. Recognizing his desire to flourish, the team encouraged him to take on more responsibilities.
Zackary transitioned to working directly on the Sales Floor where he began learning about our processes. Day by day, he discovered the joy of putting out wares and managing rotations for the department. His journey of discovery continued when he became heavily involved in the furniture department. This is where Zackary shone the brightest—learning to write out the two-part ticket, managing the sales process, and assisting customers with their purchases. Soon enough, he earned the affectionate title of “Furniture Keeper.” His role evolved into not just a job, but a passion for helping customers find what they need while fostering a friendly atmosphere that welcomes every shopper.
But working at Goodwill wasn’t the only thing on Zackary’s plate. Since 2022, he has also been employed at Publix, where he applies the same level of dedication to customer service, helping to bag groceries and assisting customers to their vehicles. His commitment to serving others exemplifies the spirit of teamwork and community that we cherish at Goodwill.
Zackary’s journey goes beyond just his dual work roles. He has been a participant in the Special Olympics since 2017—competing year-round in sports like basketball, pickleball, and bowling. His hard work and determination have paid off, as he’s brought home medals ranging from 1st to 4th place. The community celebrates his spirit and enthusiasm not just for sports, but also for life—especially when it comes to dancing! Who knows, maybe one day, we will see him holding a medal for dancing as well!
As his Good Partner Coach (GPC), I am consistently amazed by how Zackary balances his work commitments with his active participation in the Special Olympics. His progress has been nothing short of inspiring. Not only has Zackary developed his work ethic, but he also interacts socially with team members without needing prompts. His laugh is contagious, and his confidence continues to grow with every passing day.
Most recently, Zackary achieved one of his Individual Development Plan (IDP) goals by receiving the prestigious Milestone Award for 2025! This well-deserved recognition is a testament to his hard work and the support of his Goodwill family. We are incredibly proud to have Zackary as part of our team at Ranch Lake GGC.
In acknowledging Zackary’s input, we also highlight a core belief at Goodwill: everyone deserves the opportunity to grow and succeed. Zackary’s journey is a perfect illustration of how perseverance, coupled with a supportive environment, can lead to personal development and increased self-confidence.
We celebrate Zackary not just for his accomplishments but for embodying the spirit of Goodwill—enhancing the lives of not only himself but also everyone he interacts with at work and in sports. By reaching for the stars, Zackary continues to remind us all of the impact we can make in our community when we believe in ourselves and support one another.
Thank you, Zackary, for your dedication, your heart, and everything you do at Goodwill and Publix. Your journey inspires us all and reminds us of the beauty of teamwork and community.
