As a young mother, Nevaeh Bower came to Goodwill determined to build a stable future for herself and her daughter, despite facing significant challenges. Prior to entering the program, she was living in a temporary situation with her father after leaving her mother’s home in Findlay. The environment was not stable, and she was navigating personal hardships while trying to care for her child and find a path forward.
Nevaeh learned about Goodwill’s youth homelessness program – funded by the Ohio Department of Health and operated by Goodwill – through community resources while actively searching for help. That connection became a turning point in her life.
Through the program, Nevaeh found not just services, but consistent and compassionate support. With the guidance of her Goodwill advocate, Heather Hazlett, she secured stable employment at Chipotle, where she has now been working successfully for over six months. Beyond employment, the program provided critical support such as transportation assistance, gas cards, and help covering her housing deposit – removing key barriers that often stand in the way of long-term stability.
Nevaeh describes Goodwill as “a big support,” emphasizing how her advocate stayed by her side and helped her navigate challenges every step of the way.
Today, Nevaeh’s life looks very different. She now has stable housing for herself and her daughter, along with a reliable income. In April 2026, she also reached an important milestone by graduating from Buckeye Community School – an achievement that reflects her determination and hard work. As a result, her child’s health is improving, and Nevaeh reports feeling less stressed and more confident about her future.
Looking ahead, Nevaeh is focused on being fully present for her daughter while she is young. She hopes to attend college in the future to pursue a career in the healthcare field. She also aims to achieve financial stability, purchase a car, and continue building a better life for her family.
Nevaeh wants others to know that Goodwill is more than just a program – it’s a source of real support and guidance. “You have someone there for you who checks in and guides you,” she shared, noting that many people don’t have that kind of support system. She also highlighted the life skills and growth opportunities the program provides.
In her own words: “Goodwill didn’t just help me financially – they showed me I wasn’t alone and helped me build a better future for me and my daughter.”
Good Happens Here.