Creating a New Path

While studying special education at the University of Georgia, Jonathon Clark’s life took an unexpected turn.

Clark had a brain aneurysm burst which resulted in a stroke. He survived the incident, but was left with limited mobility and some traumatic brain damage. At that point he had to find a new path for his career.

Clark sought assistance from Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation and was referred to Goodwill of North Georgia’s Workforce Development program. “When I met with Goodwill, the most helpful thing for me was all the various job leads,” he says. “Otherwise I wouldn’t even know where to look or how to apply for jobs.” Though Clark is unable to drive himself, his Goodwill job coach even helped with transportation assistance to and from job fairs and training.

After completing his training, Clark was hired as a cashier at a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Marietta. “He really didn’t need coaching, he was already professional and knowledgeable” says Goodwill Job Coach Cassandra Wimberly. “He was so excited and grateful to be working. I was just there to make sure he was comfortable.”

Checking in every 30, 60, 90, 120 and 180 days, upon program completion is another way Goodwill Job Coaches ensure the job is a good fit and that graduates have what they need to continue to succeed at work. Wimberly enjoys the visits with Clark because of his optimistic personality. “I’ve never visited or spoken with him where he wasn’t positive or upbeat. He is truly a pleasure,” she says.

One of the last faces customers see before they leave the store, Clark wants to make a positive lasting impression. If customers are happy when they leave, they are more likely to come back and to spread the word to their friends. Clark’s manager has also noticed his initiative and exceptional service. “The job is going really well,” Clark says. “I’m approaching the two year mark [with the company]. I’m so happy with my job I’m hoping to see what kind of mobility I have if I stay there.”

When Clark was recovering from his life-changing injury in 2014, he was told he may never walk again. That didn’t stand in the way of Clark pursuing a career. “Jonathon is awesome,” says Wimberly. As a proud job coach, she is grateful to see the opportunities Clark is embracing and the positive impact he will continue to have on those around him.