Expanding Horizons in Healthcare: Kimberly's Story
Above: Kimberly shares her experience in the Phlebotomy Technician training cohort at Goodwill.
Goodwill Southeast Georgia is celebrating the graduation of the Phlebotomy Technician Fall 2024 training cohort at the Savannah Opportunity Center! Among the graduates is Kimberly, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) who is exploring new learning opportunities to grow her skillset and expand her horizons in the medical field.
For Kimberly, the decision to enroll in Goodwill’s program was about more than earning a certification. "You can't go wrong when you come to Goodwill. It's almost like a one-stop shop," she shared.
Goodwill provided her not only with technical training through a partnership with Savannah Technical College, but also with essential skills to build her confidence in professional environments. "They’re going to guide you and lead you—from resume building to team building to getting you ready for the workforce."
Kimberly says thanks to Goodwill, she’s ready to take on new challenges and goals for her career. "Sometimes, you don’t know how to be in a certain setting, but Goodwill teaches you and gives you the skills. Being able to actually accomplish something—getting certified in something where you can better yourself, your life, and your family—truly put the spark back in me, honestly."
Kimberly was part of a group of more than a dozen determined students, each with their own story. Together, they overcame challenges like balancing long work shifts, late-night study sessions, and even two hurricanes. Despite it all, they persevered. "This is called sacrifice," fellow graduate Ciara said, reflecting on their shared journey. "We did this for us and for our families."
The bonds formed in the program ran deep. Danielle Irwin, the career service specialist for Goodwill's Savannah Opportunity Center, emphasized that the support from Goodwill will continue long after the program. "I have seen the growth. I’ve seen y’all come in one way and go out another. We are family, and we are connected."
"Don’t think it’s strange if I’m calling to say, ‘Come in and encourage the class.’ They just need somebody to let them know they can make it because you did it."
For Kimberly, the training she received went beyond technical skills. "This program wasn’t just about learning to draw blood. It was about building a community, creating opportunities, and paving the way for a brighter future."
Her confidence has grown, and she’s excited about what’s next. "I feel confident going into a lab setting and knowing, hey, I was trained through Goodwill and Savannah Tech."
Congratulations to Kimberly and the entire graduating class on this incredible achievement! We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in their communities and in healthcare.
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