Betty Staehr

Job Source

Watch Betty’s Video.

Betty’s courageous spirit and determination led her to Goodwill at a tough time in her life. After a painful divorce, Betty’s life began to unravel with the loss of her long-time job, housing, car, good credit, and even her beloved mother. With her life turned upside-down due to such great loss, the one thing that she held onto was her incredible strength.

“Failure was not an option when I was given the resources to succeed and caring people sharing their time with me,” said Betty.

At Goodwill, Betty was connected with Employment Specialist Sarah Valdez-Tate, who began working with her to strengthen her job search skills, including building a resume, completing applications, learning computer skills, and networking.

Even as she was struggling both emotionally and financially from her losses, Betty still found the strength to diligently continue her job search. After a visit to Goodwill Staffing Group (GSG), a business division of Goodwill that provides temporary employment positions for people with barriers to employment, her hard work paid off. She prepared for her skills assessment and resolved to perform well. “Betty practiced Excel for hours, asking lots of questions and taking notes,” said Sarah. “She was so focused and driven, determined not to let the opportunity pass her.”

After Betty successfully studied for and passed a computer skills test, GSS offered her a temporary position as an administrative assistant in a podiatrist’s office. Two weeks later, recognizing Betty’s hard work as she carried out the duties of running a small two-person office, the doctor hired her on full-time. Within a month, she had already received her first raise.

Goodwill’s support didn’t end there. Although Betty had found steady employment, she was still heavy in debt and barely able to pay rent. Betty worked with a Goodwill financial trainer who helped her to manage her newly-earned income and plan for the future. She also received assistance with rent until she got back on her feet.

Betty has been successfully employed for almost a year, and she couldn’t be happier. “The resources that Goodwill offers have been the foundation for my success, and I am extremely grateful,” said Betty.

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