When Leonard, a proud U.S. Army veteran, began falling behind on rent after leaving his full-time job, he didn’t know where to turn. That’s when a friend told him about Goodwill Kentucky’s Another Way program, and it changed his life.
The Another Way program uses Goodwill transportation to canvass highly trafficked areas, such as homeless shelters, highways, and street corners, to connect with individuals seeking immediate income. Participants are picked up and taken to worksites for four hours of work. In return, they earn $50, lunch, and an introduction to barrier-reduction resources offered through Goodwill Kentucky Opportunity Centers.
Through Another Way, Leonard met Pharra, a Goodwill career coach who quickly became a guiding light on his journey toward stability. “She’s giving me the skills to face the world,” Leonard said. “And I appreciate that.”
With Pharra’s support, Leonard began rebuilding both his confidence and his career. He completed digital literacy training and earned his forklift certification, and he’s now enrolled in welding training, a step he believes will secure his long-term success.
“I’m waiting to start a welding class somewhere,” he said. “I know, after that—with the money that I’ll be making—I’ll have a true fighting chance in life. I appreciate everything Goodwill Kentucky does for us.”
Pharra remembers the first time she met Leonard and how his story unfolded. “He was broken,” she said. “It was inside brokenness, but we saw him. Goodwill saw him. And we helped him find himself, his own mirror and reflection. Now he’s telling me what’s up: ‘Hey, I want to do this. Hey, I want to do that.’ We’ve switched roles a little bit. I’m really proud of him.”
Pharra also recalled that Leonard didn’t even mention he was a veteran until the very end of their interview—a quiet detail that revealed his humility and strength. “That’s just who he is,” she said. “He doesn’t look for special treatment. He just wants to work and move forward.”
As Leonard begins his welding training, he’s also preparing for another big step. Once he begins working steadily, he’ll qualify for veteran-assisted housing, something he said wouldn’t be possible without Goodwill’s support. The opportunity will provide him with a stable place to call home while he builds his new career.
Now, Leonard looks toward the future with renewed hope. “It’s a journey worth taking,” he said. “We’re lucky to have these kinds of resources. I’m big on Goodwill—I really am. I’m glad that we have this chance. If a person wants to turn their life around and do better, there are people here who will help you.”
Leonard’s story is one veteran’s voice among many and proof that, with the right support, everyone can find another way forward.