After serving three years in prison, Kenneth went to work for a local company. Thirteen months later, his past came back to haunt him. “The company knew I had a felony, but when new management came in, they ran a background check and let me go,” he said. “Actually, I got promoted to a dispatcher on Thursday, and they dismissed me on Saturday.”

For the next two years Kenneth applied for dozens of jobs, but he couldn’t find work. That’s when Kenneth turned to Career Solutions for help. Three months later, Goodwill offered him a job.

Kenneth worked as a material handler in one of Goodwill’s downtown Nashville warehouses for two years. Then in 2013, he was promoted to assistant supervisor. “Someone saw my potential,” he said with a grin.

Kenneth’s supervisor, Dollie Lillard, said she saw his potential right away. “He is honest and dependable, and he goes above and beyond to get the job done,” she said. “One Saturday, several co-workers were having difficulty getting to work because of bus issues. He piled as many people as he could in his car and drove them to work.”

Kenneth says it’s nice to be able to help others the way Goodwill has helped him. “When I lost that job five years ago, it dampened my spirits, but Goodwill has uplifted me and given me another chance at life,” he said. “I can now provide for my family.”

Five years ago, Kenneth was unsure of his future. Today, he is excited about what lies ahead. “Because of Goodwill I have a better life.”

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