Richard Lopez

Commercial Services

Watch Richard’s Video.

Richard came to Goodwill in search of a chance at a stable life for himself and his family.

Before his thirteenth birthday, Richard was using and selling drugs. After more than two decades of a lifestyle leading to dead ends and negative outcomes, Richard and his wife decided together that they needed to break the cycle in order to become better parents to their young children.

As he worked to rebuild his life, Richard began searching for a job that would allow him to support himself and his family. His first attempts at gainful employment were largely unsuccessful—he had little knowledge of the world of work.

“I didn’t know how to behave without drugs and alcohol,” said Richard. “I never found it difficult to find a job; it’s much easier to lose it. I tried all kinds of different work, but something inside myself told me that I could do better.” After struggling through sixteen different positions in four years, he ended up applying for a job as a Mailroom Clerk for Goodwill. There, he met with Melvin Capler, Vice President of Commercial Services, who gave Richard not only a job, but a chance to prove that he could be a valuable and successful team member.

“Melvin brought out the best in me, counseled me and had so much to do with my success,” said Richard. “He was my advisor, straightforward and truthful, even when I didn’t want to hear it.”

Richard’s determination, along with guidance from Goodwill, earned him a promotion within four months of his hire date. With his new level of responsibility, he began to serve as a mentor to entry-level employees, teaching them new skills and modeling professional behavior.

His unfailing encouragement to his co-workers and direct reports, along with several years of hard work, resulted in his next promotion to Goodwill’s Mailroom Supervisor, where he manages the mailroom for two state contracts. A dedicated employee for more than twelve years, Richard continues to grow and excel at his job.

Although Richard’s journey was not without obstacles, he is now a role model for his children. His two daughters, two sons, and thirteen grandchildren all would have had very different lives if it wasn’t for Richard’s steadfast determination. Not only has Richard’s future been transformed by his employment at Goodwill, it has also changed the lives of his family, who strive to follow in Richard’s footsteps.

Richard Lopez’s video is an official selection in the Lights. Camera. Help. Film Festival 2010.

Back Hall of Honor 2009