•     About us
  • Our Mission
  • Our History
  • Our Culture
  • Presidents Message
  • Board of Directors
  • Careers at Goodwill
  • Contact Us
• Services
  • Adult Programs
  • Youth Programs
  • Commercial Services
  • Environmental Business
  • Goodwill Staffing Services
  • Retail Services
  • Bookworks Fulfillment
  • Success Stories
•  Media / Events
  • Blog
  • In the News
  • Press Room
  • Events
  • Literature
•    Community
  • Community Center
  • Museum
  • Volunteer
  • Locations

Rising Star, WIA Youth Services (March 2009)

A teen mother struggling to stay in high school and support her new family, Mercedes Castillo entered Goodwill’s WIA Youth Services program in search of assistance in preparing for her family’s future. (The WIA Youth Services program is funded by Workforce Solutions, the Greater Austin Area Workforce Development Board).

Goodwill quickly connected Mercedes to a case manager, who provided her with case management, educational support and help locating child care and other community resources that would help her as she pursued her educational and life goals.

With Goodwill’s help and Mercedes’ own drive to succeed, she took an accelerated program that allowed her to graduate from high school a year early. During her senior year, she participated in Austin Community College’s dual enrollment program, where she began studying for a career in the Health Care industry.

Goodwill helped Mercedes strengthen her parenting skills by connecting her with Child, Inc., a nonprofit organization that focuses on family and child development. There, Mercedes was able to take parenting classes while her young son received educational services.

Recently, Mercedes was nominated for the Responsible Parenting Award through Child Inc., along with a number of other young mothers. After a rigorous nomination and selection process, Mercedes was chosen to receive this award, along with a new Crown Victoria car that will give her freedom to continue to pursue the goals she has set for herself.

An exceptional young parent who works hard to meet her educational and employment goals, Mercedes understands that sacrifices will have to be made in order for her and her son to achieve the life she has in store for them. Currently she is working full-time at HEB and pursuing her degree at Austin Community College. She continues to successfully demonstrate the self-sufficiency and responsibility that Goodwill works to instill in everyone we serve.