02 Jan Shelley’s Story

For nearly two decades, Shelley lived a secret life. “I was a meth addict for 19 years, and then the inevitable happened,” she said.

In 2010, police arrested Shelley for the first time. The judge sentenced her to two years of supervised probation and ordered her to get a job. “During my drug addiction, I was unemployable, so I hadn’t worked in over two years.”

Shelley spent the next several months focused on conquering her addiction. She underwent seven months of treatment and attended two AA meetings every day. “Getting sober was about the hardest thing I had ever done in my life,” she said. “I don’t think I could go through that again, and that’s what keeps me sober.”

Shortly after treatment, Shelley accepted a job at Goodwill. The first few months were challenging. “My self-confidence was just devastated, but the store staff knew what I was going through and would push me that extra bit,” she said. “I never had to hide my past, and to have that support at a place of employment is invaluable.”

In two and a half years, Shelley has received several promotions. She is currently the lead processor at the Union City Goodwill store, and she very happy. “Oh, I absolutely love my job, and I love Goodwill,” she said with a smile. “It’s a place for second chances, and when I see someone like me given a second chance, it makes me love Goodwill even more.”

When asked about the future, Shelley said she hopes to continue her journey through life right here at Goodwill. “Working for Goodwill has changed my life. There’s no place I’d rather be.”

Watch Shelley’s story: