After serving 16 months in prison for drug trafficking, Michael was determined to turn his life around.
The first step was enrolling in SOKY Sober Living in Bowling Green, where he found a network of individuals who understood his struggles. Shortly after, he learned about the services offered at Goodwill. He joined the Bowling Green Opportunity Center, where he was able to enhance his job skills while reintegrating into society.
“There is so much information that I forgot,” he said. “How to carry yourself, how to interview, smaller details – it’s a whole different ballgame. I came out of the class sharper than I was before.”
After completing his job-readiness training, Michael started applying for jobs with the help of his Career Coach, Sonya. He eventually found stable employment as a plumber for Stewart Richey. Michael said Sonya helped him dress the part for his interview.
“(My interviewer) said, ‘Look, I’ll give anyone who is trying a chance,’” he said. “I got together with Miss Sonya to try to get a few clothes for the job interview. Because I didn’t have anything. She got me a voucher, so I went down to Goodwill and got a black shirt and a black pair of pants.”
After just five months, Michael has earned a raise and currently makes $18 per hour.
“This company I work for is super supportive,” he said. “They know my history. … They are so flexible with me, like, ‘Look, don’t ask, just tell us what we need to do to support you. We want you to be the best you possible.’”
Michael said he still takes substance abuse classes to keep him where he “needs to be.” He said if he ever needs a little extra help, though, he knows who to call.
“Their support has been the world to me,” he said. “I know I can call them if I need something. They’ll help me figure it out. And that’s hard to find.”