Jordon Douglas

Looking for a positive change and new opportunities, Jordan Douglas walked into the doors of the Smyrna Goodwill Career Center, hoping to receive career assistance. Upon his arrival, he met with Navigator, Iesha Norwood, who he says provided him with great information about Goodwill’s skills training and intensive services programs. Jordan expressed his interest in Goodwill’s welding program but was unsure how he could afford the training. Iesha sat down with Jordan to discuss the different funders with which Goodwill is partnered and what qualifications he would need.

Jordan disclosed that he had previously been incarcerated, which was part of why he sought help from Goodwill, as his background deeply affected his employment opportunities. He was given information about Goodwill’s Young Adult Reentry Program (YARP), which is funded through the Department of Labor. Jordan was connected to Goodwill’s YARP Case Manager, Kirsten Ford, and the Smyrna Career Center Case Managers, Abigail Whiteside, and Karson Brown. Initially, Jordan had struggles with taking the training seriously and staying motivated. He could do the work well but wondered if this program would help him and if this was a career he wanted to pursue. Transportation was a significant barrier that affected his motivation to attend the program. At the time, Jordan did not have a driver’s license and had to rely on friends and family to provide him with transportation to and from the program. With this came issues of tardiness to class. Abigail and Karson sat down with Jordan and discussed his motivation and transportation struggles, in which they could advocate for him to receive transportation assistance through his YARP funding.

With a guaranteed mode of transportation, Jordan’s motivation rose, and his performance in class was exemplary. He motivated and assisted his peers while working on class assignments. His case managers assisted him with interview preparation and helped him update his résumé. Jordan was able to complete his welding training at Goodwill successfully. Jordan stated, “Abigail and Karson were especially helpful during my time in the program. They provided me with transportation, food and even made themselves available after hours if needed.”

Jordan was able to achieve successful employment after completing the program. He now works as a welder at Atkore US Tray Manufacturer in Atlanta, making $20 an hour. When asked what his advice is for those with a similar background as him seeking assistance from Goodwill, he said, “This is not a difficult program, but it can be a challenge. Goodwill staff will help you put yourself in a better position than before. People are there to help you, be motivated and ready to work!.” Jordan is a pleasant reminder of why the staff here at Goodwill strive hard to accomplish our mission, To Put People To Work.