Clarence Hardeman

Job Source

Watch video about Clarence.

A man of few words, Clarence Hardeman is a true leader in his community and a source of inspiration to everyone that he meets.

Clarence came to Goodwill in June of 2007 in need of assistance in finding a full-time, permanent position in the medical field. Although he had a proven track record of success, with 14 years of employment experience and regular outreach work with his church, he had a charge resulting in deferred adjudication dating back about 20 years that made achieving gainful employment difficult.

“Looking for jobs was not easy because there were things on my record that were pending, but no final results,” said Clarence. “I needed to talk to legal aide to get some assistance with getting some things off of my record so I could apply for jobs that were in the area that I desired.”

Through Goodwill’s Job Source Program, Clarence met with his Placement Specialist Polly Levers and received comprehensive case management, including application and resume writing training, job placement assistance, and other basic needs assistance. A crucial part of what Goodwill could provide for Clarence was simply the moral support that he needed to get over his fear of applying for jobs.

“A lot of what I could offer him was being there and being an ear for him,” said Polly. “I know that was important to him.” Clarence’s hard work, perseverance and diligent application led to full-time employment as a Medical Dispatcher at a local hospital, just five months after coming to Goodwill.

“I’m very happy that I came to Goodwill,” said Clarence. “It helped prepare me for the job market. I had a couple of interviews with some goodwill staff members that helped prepare me for the interview with my current employer.”

Committed to the welfare of his community, Clarence regularly volunteers at his church and serves as the Resident Council President of his apartment complex. A positive advocate, Clarence continues to point his neighbors in need to the services that Goodwill provides to the community.

Clarence has been working for over a year as a Medical Dispatcher, and he hopes to continue his career in the healthcare industry one day by becoming a nurse or work in healthcare management.

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