work and personal life

Veterans Day is about the people who have served our country. It is a day to celebrate their service and to thank them for our freedom. Today Horizon Goodwill Industries wants to thank our employees and clients for serving our country. Here are a few of their stories:

This is our very own Administrative Assistant, Debbie Kreiner and this is her story:

“I was 19 years old when my grandparents suggested that I join the military. That’s exactly what I did. I joined the United States Navy in 1981, served our country for 4 years active duty and 2 years inactive duty. I was a storekeeper in charge of the command’s supplies. I learned attention to detail, self-discipline, respect, and how to follow orders. [With the leadership skills I gained], I supervised the construction of a new supply depot. Being a veteran has opened many doors for volunteer and employment opportunities [for me]. I feel that all Americans should give 2 years of service to our country. It builds good character!” – Debbie Kreiner. Happy Veterans Day!

John Garrison (picture unavailable) served in the United States Air Force for five years. He received an honorable discharge, and later sought services from the Veterans Administration Medical Center. John enrolled in the VA Medical Center’s homeless program July 2011. After a year in the VA program, he was referred to Horizon Goodwill Industries for vocational skills training. Initially, John was introverted and uncomfortable with a social atmosphere. After he completed our Work Experience Program, he appeared more confident, and volunteered to help at other Goodwill work sites and projects. John participated in a variety of work situations, learning the skills needed to find and keep a job. John is now working as a custodian in a federal building in Martinsburg. He has graduated from the VA homeless program, and has obtained independent housing. We value you for your time here at Goodwill and honor you for your service John. Thank you!

Michelle Cushing, a United States Navy veteran, is achieving her goals with the help of Horizon Goodwill Industries. Michelle’s progress is nothing but extraordinary. When she came to us from the Missouri Goals Program, she was homeless. Since being removed from that program, Michelle received a HUD housing voucher with our assistance and got her own apartment. She now has two jobs, one at Tractor Supply and the other as a server at Hoss’s Steakhouse and is working to regain custody of her three beautiful children, who visit her new apartment and talk with her daily. We salute you Michelle. Thank you for your Service!

These stories go to show that our veterans do so much for our country while asking for little in return. We are here to help them get back into the workforce and become more self-sufficient by achieving their goals.

Happy Memorial Day to all of our veterans. To brave men and women everywhere who have served, and to their families: Thank You.