After recently relocating to Muskegon, Tomasyne struggled to find work in her new community. “My confidence in my ability to find employment was getting low. I was living off my savings and I knew I needed help,” she said.

Tomasyne had heard that Goodwill helps people with job placement, so she called the Career Center and made an appointment with Career Coach LaTonya Burks. After exploring career options and assessing her skills, LaTonya suggested she enroll in Goodwill’s GoodWorks training program.

“Tomasyne was interested in rejoining the workforce,” LaTonya said. “She had been out for some time, so she needed some assistance.”

GoodWorks is a short-term, customizable program that combines classroom instruction—covering résumé writing, interview coaching, job search strategies, and financial training such as budgeting, saving, and debt reduction—with paid Work Experience Training at Goodwill’s Industrial Services Center. Participants gain hands-on experience in tasks such as packaging and assembly for Goodwill’s contract partners.

“The in-house work experience helps introduce or reacclimate a person to the routine and structure of work,” LaTonya explained. “It also enhances their résumé and skill set, while putting money in their pocket in the meantime. By placing her in the GoodWorks program, we could assess her strengths and work on areas where she could use additional support.”

Through Goodwill’s staffing agency, GoodTemps, Tomasyne secured a temporary assignment with local nonprofit Community enCompass. “I got my confidence back and was able to pay my bills,” she said.

Carl Lewis, Goodwill Career Center Manager

Knowing her position was temporary, Tomasyne stayed in contact with LaTonya. When a receptionist position opened at Goodwill’s Career Center, she jumped at the opportunity—and landed the job.

“Tomasyne exhibits what perseverance and determination can achieve,” said Career Center Manager Carl Lewis. “She cheerfully greets and assists people seeking Goodwill services. She likes to mentor, encourage, and motivate others. She is well deserving of this recognition.”

“She just fits the culture—her work ethic, her go-get-it spirit,” LaTonya added. “That’s the type of person you want on staff.”

“I can’t even imagine working anywhere else right now. I want to thank Goodwill for who they are and what they stand for in the community. I’m really, really proud to be an employee here at Goodwill in Muskegon,” Tomasyne said. “My next goal is to become a Goodwill Career Coach.”