Meet Jeff: rebuilding through persistence

Jeff working at Pro Print (right) with his case manager and director of TNG’s Business Service Department Ian (left)

After relocating to Duluth for a fresh start, Jeff connected with True North Goodwill’s (TNG) Employment Services while working to rebuild his life and maintain his sobriety. He faced several barriers, including missing identification documents, limited finances, transportation challenges, and little experience navigating online job applications. With support from his case manager Ian, Jeff tackled obstacles one by one, obtaining replacement documents, updating his resume, building digital skills, and accessing transportation and financial assistance as he searched for work.

Jeff's determination paid off when True North Goodwill's Business Services team connected him with a contract position at Pro Print. Support from TNG helped him get to work each day, where he quickly earned a reputation as a reliable, hardworking employee. After eight months, Pro Print hired him full-time, and he soon earned a raise and overtime opportunities. Jeff has regained his driver's license, been released from probation early, and continues building stable future. Reflecting on his journey, Jeff said, "I couldn't have done it without good friends and Goodwill." Jeff shows how perseverance, support, and opportunity can help create lasting change.