From Reentry to Stability
How Goodwill’s Offender Success Program Helped Keeria Secure a Grounded Career
Keeria was referred to the Offender Success (OS) program through her probation officer in October of 2024.
“I was just reentering the community and things did not look good,” Keeria said. “Finding a job was difficult. Work was inconsistent and my life was not as stable as I wanted.”
Working with Goodwill Career Coach Joe Gordon, Keeria was provided job-readiness coaching, interview preparation, résumé assistance, and job-placement support. Joe connected Keeria to felony-friendly employers and provided her with a bike to assist with her transportation barrier.
“I like how consistent and determined Joe was to help me,” Keeria said. “We set a goal and saw it through. Goodwill made me feel seen, heard and encouraged. I know it was the right place to help me.”
Initially Keeria secured employment at Big Boy’s restaurant to begin earning an income and gain work experience. When a new job opportunity opened up at pet food wholesale distributor, John A. Van Den Bosch Company in Holland, Keeria applied and now works there as a materials handler.
“I love my job I like working with all the wonderful people there,” Keeria said. “I love the culture. It’s so peaceful. What more can I ask for?”
“Keeria is a hard worker, optimistic, and patient,” Joe said. “Things were not easy for her when she first came out. But she remained hopeful and worked jobs that did not pay the greatest to keep food on her table. She was determined. Keeria brings great energy everywhere she goes as well as a great sense of humor.”
“My life changed for the better. I’m stable and employed. Goodwill helped get a good foundation started for me.”
Keeria
“Goodwill helping me find a stable job was the biggest impact,” Keeria said. “It meets my needs and that of my daughter. Making sure she is taken care of is the main idea.”
Her advice for others facing similar challenges? “Be patient. Be consistent. Have a good attitude and do the work.”
“My life changed for the better,” Keeria said. “I’m stable and employed. Goodwill helped get a good foundation started for me.”
Offender Success is a statewide program implemented by the Michigan Department of Corrections that fosters change and success for those in prison, as well as those on parole or probation. Program participants receive collaborative, wrap-round support services that builds a foundation for successful transition back to communities and the workforce. Participants are referred by the Michigan Department of Corrections Parole Board and Probation.
