When Emily enrolled in Goodwill’s Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) program in December 2024, she was taking a brave first step toward independence. At the time, Emily was quiet and unsure of herself, spending much of her time at home and uncertain about how to begin a job search.
Through a referral from her Service and Support Administrator at the Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Emily connected with Goodwill and began working one-on-one with a Goodwill Employment Specialist to explore opportunities and build confidence.
Together, Emily, her family, and her Employment Specialist worked through the fundamentals, identifying the right type of work, creating a résumé, practicing interviews, and learning how to complete job applications. The process felt intimidating at first, but with patience, encouragement, and steady support, Emily discovered she was capable of more than she had imagined.
In July 2025, Emily was hired at Arby’s, where she quickly found her place. She takes pride in keeping the restaurant clean and welcoming, cleaning windows, tables, the lobby, and outdoor areas. Just as importantly, she found something she hadn’t expected: friendships. Emily speaks proudly of her coworkers, who value her as a teammate and friend. Through her job, she is earning her own money, learning to budget, watching for sales, and growing in confidence and responsibility.
Emily’s progress didn’t go unnoticed, especially by her brother, Nicky. After watching his sister succeed, Nicky enrolled in the OOD program in May 2025. Before coming to Goodwill,
Nicky spent much of his time at home, unsure of his direction and struggling with motivation. Seeing Emily’s journey inspired him to take a chance on his own next chapter.
Nicky began working with a Goodwill Employment Specialist, and like his sister, started by building foundational skills, communication, responsibility, and confidence. At first, he was quiet and hesitant. Over time, that changed. Nicky found his voice, discovered he was a people person, and realized he was more capable than he had believed.
Just two months later, in July 2025, Nicky interviewed at Arby’s, and got the job. Today, he works across multiple areas of the restaurant, from fryers and dishes to dining room upkeep, stepping in wherever he’s needed. He’s built strong relationships with his coworkers and is a valued member of the team. Since starting work, Nicky has opened a bank account, learned to save money, earned his driver’s license, and gained a growing sense of independence and self-confidence.
For Emily and Nicky, employment has been about far more than a paycheck. It has meant belonging, growth, and the chance to see themselves differently, and to see what’s possible. Together, Emily and Nicky are writing a new chapter, one shaped by opportunity, determination, and the belief that with the right support, anyone can move forward.