Nineteen-year-old Kaleigh Crump came to Goodwill’s Dawsonville Career Center in June 2021 after being referred by her Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) counselor. She met with Case Manager Alex Balla and began her training in Goodwill’s Dawsonville store.

Upon entering the store’s processing area, Kaleigh was immediately impressed with the number of donations being received. One of the assignments she enjoyed most was organizing books because she loves to read. Although she struggled with back pain at times, she persevered and completed her work evaluation at the end of July. Kaleigh then took a break from training and returned in late September to enroll in the work adjustment program. Transportation provided by Goodwill’s van reduced the burden on Kaleigh’s mother, who had been driving her in the summer.

By mid-October, Kaleigh finished job readiness training classes and demonstrated that she was ready to move on to permanent employment. She shared with Alex her interest in working with children and was excited to be placed at an internship at Char’s Family Daycare, Inc.  Kaleigh’s internship supervisor was pleased with her performance and Kaleigh told Alex that she was enjoying every minute of the experience.

In late November, Kaleigh was thrilled to be offered an assistant teacher position at a rate of $8.25 per hour. She continues to excel in her work and her manager is looking forward to having her take on more hours when her transportation situation allows. Kaleigh loves her job and is grateful to Goodwill for helping her prepare for success.