Goodwill Industries of Kentucky Inc

Before her grandmother passed away unexpectedly in 2012,
providing her care was Ashley’s full-time job. With no driver’s license and limited work experience, Ashley enrolled in the KentuckianaWorks Power of Work* program, operated by Goodwill Industries of Kentucky.

Through the Power of Work program, Ashley completed a mock interview with the manager of the Shepherdsville Goodwill store. Within two weeks of her interview, Ashley was placed at the store as a temporary worker through GTS Staffing**, a service of Goodwill.

In February 2013, Ashley was promoted to assistant manager. That same month, she earned her driver’s license and transitioned off government assistance.

“Gaining independence meant so much to me,” Ashley said. “As a single mother, I am so proud that I have the ability to provide for my daughter.”

In May 2015, Ashley experienced a major setback after a car
accident resulted in a broken leg and surgery. In order to afford the full cost of medical procedures, Ashley applied for and received an interest-free loan through Goodwill Industries Volunteer Services, an organization that raises money to support Goodwill’s employees and programs.

Immediately after her accident, Ashley enrolled in Goodwill’s community employment program***, where she worked one-on-one with Community Employment Specialist Tiffany Anthony to set and achieve financial goals regarding her loan.

“Three days after the accident, I was back to work,” Ashley
said. “Goodwill had a stool ready for me, and all of my coworkers provided so much emotional support. I feel immensely blessed to work for such a supportive organization.”

*The KentuckianaWorks Power of Work program matches eager, willing, and prepared workers with employers. Participants receive skill assessment and job readiness training so they are able to smoothly transition into employment.

**GTS Staffing helps people with disabilities or other
disadvantages find temporary jobs with the ultimate goal of full-time employment.

*** The community employment program provides job
coaching and support for Goodwill employees in an effort to help them maintain and succeed in their employment.