For years, Kristin lived in a cycle of houselessness, incarceration, and substance use disorder. She became, as she describes it, a “statistic of recidivism.” Everything began to change in 2023, when she was offered a chance at freedom and treatment.
Through her reentry journey, Kristin connected with Goodwill Kentucky, where a reentry coach provided the essentials she lacked: clothing, food, transportation assistance, computer access, and resources. With a bike from the Last Mile to Work program, she could get to and from opportunities.
“The minute I walked through the doors of the Goodwill Opportunity Center, I was already halfway there,” she said. “I suddenly had direction, where before I felt lost. I knew these people would help me stay strong at my lowest point coming out of long-term incarceration, and they did. I’m forever thankful.”
Soon after, Kristin was paired with a career coach who helped her secure employment with a second-chance employer and supported her in earning three professional certifications. What began as just a “job” quickly became a meaningful career.
Today, Kristin serves as a targeted case manager at the New Leaf Clinic, using her lived experience to inspire and guide others on their own paths to recovery and stability.
“Thank you, Goodwill, for your unwavering support and guidance,” she said. “You have been there from my time of absolute uncertainty and fear, all the way through to my success and stability today.”