For years, Jose Degante struggled with challenges that kept him from building the life he wanted. While in treatment, he faced a hard truth about the choices that had brought him there.
“I was the problem,” Jose said. “And the only way to solve my problem was to start working on myself.” That realization became a turning point.
Jose was living in transitional housing when he learned about Goodwill’s Foundational Community Supports (FCS) program through Jamie, an FCS Case Manager. At the time, he was trying to rebuild his life and deal with legal issues in multiple counties. He knew he needed to make changes, but the road ahead felt overwhelming.
With support from Goodwill, Jose began taking steps forward. He made the difficult decision to face his legal challenges head-on and take responsibility for his past. Along the way, he found people who encouraged him and helped him navigate obstacles that once seemed impossible.
“I had no resources,” Jose said. “When I heard of Goodwill, I just thought it was a thrift store. I didn’t know that they had resources or people that wanted to help others.”
One of the biggest challenges was getting his driver’s license back. Jose worked through licensing issues in both Montana and Washington, made required payments, completed testing, and kept trying even when things did not go as planned.
“Jamie, she took me to my driving test and encouraged me, even though I failed the first one,” he said. “She was like, it’s all right. You’re going to get back in there. You’re going to knock it out.”
When Jose finally earned his license, it gave him something he had never experienced before: independence. He could drive himself to work and take control of his own future.
As his life became more stable, Jose discovered a new purpose. Inspired by his recovery journey, he pursued work as a Peer Specialist, helping others who face addiction and mental health challenges.
“My main mission in life right now is to give back,” Jose said. “Everybody that walks into my door, I want them to feel heard and seen.”
Today, four years after beginning his journey, Jose has a home, meaningful work, and a future he is proud of. Goodwill was one source of support along the way, but Jose’s transformation came from his willingness to take responsibility, keep moving forward, and believe change was possible.
His message to others is simple: “It’s never too late to change. Don’t stop believing in yourself.”