Before Alexya started working, her days felt quiet and heavy. She stayed home a lot, and her depression made it hard to feel hopeful. She dreamed of having a job one day, but that dream felt far away. Still, deep down, she wanted to work and be around people.
About a year ago, Alexya joined Goodwill through the Extended Employment Program.
From the start, she felt welcomed. The job coaches and coworkers at Goodwill treated her kindly, fairly, and with respect. That made a big difference for her. She knew she was in a place where she mattered. A dream she had since she was 17 finally came true.
At work, Alexya scans and logs books, puts them on the sales floor, and helps wherever she is needed. Sometimes she also takes the tags off clothes. She likes to say she is the “mom of the warehouse.” She watches out for others and brings laughter into the room. Alexya loves people and believes making others laugh is important. Being around her coworkers helps her feel better and keeps her depression from taking over.
Working at Goodwill has changed Alexya’s life. This year, she even won the 2025 Goodwill Independence Award, which meant a lot to her. She said, “I’m so glad that I’m independent. Having a job makes me feel more happy and alive.”
Alexya believes Goodwill is special because it gives back to the community. She says shopping at thrift stores helps others and spreads hope. For Alexya, Goodwill is more than a job. It is lifesaving, hopeful, and full of joy