Success Story: Lloyd Foster

Meet Lloyd Foster

Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn and the best-laid plans need re-working. This was the case for Lloyd Foster, a freelance tattoo artist who was faced with major decisions after a difficult divorce. Foster has four children at home, ages 6 to 12, and he needed a more stable work schedule to spend quality time with his kids.

Well into his career in the tattoo industry, Foster had to figure out a new direction that fit his attributes and interests. He also needed an employer who would allow him to work with his many visible tattoos.

Foster was referred to Goodwill of North Georgia’s GoodTransitions program, a transitional jobs program designed to help noncustodial parents find work.

“Goodwill offers you a lot of resources as far as helping you find a job,” he says. “The transitional job alleviates financial stress during your job search.”

During his training and job search, Foster connected with Westside Works, a construction training and certification program preparing residents of Atlanta’s Westside neighborhood for employment. Immediately after graduating from the program he was hired to work as Gatekeeper No. 1 for the new Falcons stadium construction site.

“I learned to follow all my leads,” Foster says. “I’m going to try to further myself within the construction company I’m in.”