From Hopelessness to Hope: Carmela's Journey of Resilience Through Goodwill

December 23, 2024

When Carmela Vance attended Goodwill’s Mission Mobile event at Feed & Seed in March 2023, she was at a crossroads. After years of being unemployed, homeschooling five children, and serving as a caregiver for her disabled husband, she was determined to rebuild her life. Homeless and searching for opportunities, Carmela sought help updating her resume and honing her interview skills.

With Mission Mobile’s support, Carmela landed a job at Tanglewood Middle School in May 2023. Shortly after, with assistance from Homes of Hope, she secured stable housing. But Carmela didn’t stop there. With a background in psychology, she was determined to pursue a role that matched her passion.

Carmela connected with Goodwill’s Job Connection in Greer, where her career navigator, Catalina, referred her to the Youth & Family Services Center (YFSC) for a position with Goodwill’s LifeLaunch program. Her hard work and perseverance paid off, and on March 12, 2024, Carmela officially became a Goodwill Associate!

Today, Carmela shares her inspiring journey with others, often saying, “Let me tell you how GOOD Goodwill has been to me!” Her story is a testament to the transformative power of determination and support.