For the first time John left the Indian Reservation where he had spent his entire life, one filled with substance abuse and other problems.

When he went to work, with Goodwill’s help, he quickly proved to be a good employee.

Social and behavioral challenges followed him, however, and he said he didn’t know if he could ever fit in the workplace.  Eventually, after many

one-on-one sessions with his manager, John evolved into a strong team member, assisting his co-workers and living a rewarding, independent new life.

In newspaper interviews John expressed gratitude to the many people in northern Idaho who refused to give up on him.  He has been honored as Goodwill’s Graduate of the Year for the Inland Northwest.