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[podcast]http://donate.goodwill.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/ChristieJarrell.mp3[/podcast]

I was raised in North Carolina with my mother and my stepfather. Their relationship was physically violent. As I got older, I had two children at a very young age and started to abuse alcohol and other substances.

Before I came to Goodwill Industries^® of Northwest North Carolina I had gotten custody of my children back through the court system and I had been sober for about a year and a half. I had just lost my job and I was really devastated and worried about how I was going to take care of my children.

I was referred to Goodwill to learn some job skills to help me become independent and self-sufficient. I took advantage of job training services, including cover letter and resume preparation. I learned how to present myself for a business interview, and how to go out into the workplace and feel confident about myself.

Christie Jarrell counsels a client at the Path of Hope rehabilitation facility in Lexington, NC.

My initial career goal was to just establish employment. I wanted to be able to know that I was bringing home income to cover the expenses, to cover basic needs for my family. After I obtained a job, I decided to work toward becoming a substance abuse clinician and I am now getting ready to earn my certification.

My long-term goal is to open my own substance abuse facility that has spiritual counseling as well as emergency catering to clients who need clothing, shelter and detox. Goodwill created the bridge that allowed me to find employment. Not only that, they taught me the value of dedicating yourself to the community and giving back to others.

View a quick video of how Goodwill helped Christie succeed.