Success Stories
Steven Grzinich
When Steven Grizinich received the letter from Goodwill announcing his Hall of Honor distinction, he says he said, “Holy cow! I deserve this!”
He's right. After about 10 frustrating years looking for and working at various jobs that were not satisfactory, he says he has finally found what he was looking for.
The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) referred Steven to Goodwill in November of 2005 for job preparation and job placement assistance. Eileen Carroll, Steven's Goodwill placement specialist, helped Steven with employment services such as work on his resume and interviewing skills. Eileen and Steven also created tools to track the steps taken during the job search process. And, because Steven is unable to drive, Eileen provided transportation to job sites and assistance with job applications.
The hard work paid off and close to a year ago, Steven began working at the Marriott Courtyard performing maintenance. “I love my job and especially the people I work with,” says Steven. “They are all so nice.”
He says the experience finding his job at the Courtyard has definitely been much better than in the past. “Sometimes I think employers hire people with disabilities and they do it to be recognized in some way and then it's disappointing for the person. This is different.” This is a good job fit.
Attaining a goal with focused efforts is noticeably part of Steven's nature. And he's clearly grateful for the support he receives from his fellow co-workers, his family and Goodwill. “Goodwill is willing to help and put me on a track in the right direction,” he says. “I knew I could do it.”