BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) – Goodwill Industries employees gathered at Bowling Green Ballpark to recognize the nonprofit’s accomplishments that positively impact the community.
“We want to offer our support to the most vulnerable people in the community and help them become the best they can be,” said Chad Spencer, Regional Director of Career Services at Goodwill Industries of Kentucky.
Several speakers spoke about the success of Goodwill’s programs, which are designed to break down barriers and teach the skills needed to start over.
One of the speakers, Danielle Mills, talked about her struggle with alcoholism before Goodwill’s RISE program gave her a new lease on life.
“I never really had hope,” she said in her address to the crowd. “I was a hopeless alcoholic and when I walked into these rooms, I became a hopeful alcoholic.”
Today, she has a steady career at General Motors and is the proud owner of a house and car. When asked what the version of herself from 10 years ago would say about her today, Mills became emotional.
“She didn’t want to believe it. She didn’t want to. I’m going to cry right now,” she said. “I thought about it a few times. I was really devastated. The girl really needed someone and I wish I could have been there.”
Spencer says stories like Mills’ are why Goodwill employees do what they do.
“Danielle Mills is the reason we get up every morning,” he said. “She came to us because she was willing to put in the effort to improve her own situation. She will tell you herself, it’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”
Spencer recommends anyone needing these professional services visit Goodwill Industries in Bowling Green, 1806 US 31 W Bypass.
For more information about the programs offered by Goodwill Industries of Kentucky, click here.
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