“In many ways, Goodwill has changed my life,” says Stefani Bindes, 42, a convicted former drug addict.
“They knew my background – all the struggles and challenges I’ve gone through – and they were willing to take a chance on me.”
As part of her court probation, the Michigan native started her community service at Goodwill Hawaii. The manager at the Beretania Street store noticed her hard work and offered Bindes an entry-level job in 2016. She now serves as an employment counselor with the nonprofit’s “Reintegrating Individuals” program, helping to transition people from prison into work furlough – just as she once did.
“The company has been absolutely wonderful to me – everyone I work with, all the people above me. They’re always willing to give people a chance.”
