Goodwill of North Georgia is celebrating nearly 800 graduates of its career training and development program.
A graduation ceremony, themed “Dive Deep into Success,” took place on Monday in the Ocean Ballroom of the Georgia Aquarium and marked a milestone for the graduates who’ve overcome personal and professional barriers, a statement said.
Former NFL wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi, who lost his hand in an ATV accident, delivered the keynote address, sharing his journey of resilience and determination.
A total of 781 graduates from ages 15 to 77 completed training in fields such as phlebotomy, welding, electric vehicle supply equipment, medical billing and coding and other high-demand professions.
“This graduation is a testament to what’s possible when we meet people where they are and invest in their future,” said Keith Parker, President and CEO of Goodwill of North Georgia. “Each graduate represents a story of resilience, transformation, and the belief that with the right support, everyone deserves access to meaningful work.”
Goodwill offers free career coaching and training programs at 14 career centers. It’s funded through proceeds from its retail stores. The nonprofit partners with more than 5,000 employers, public agencies, private foundations, and nonprofit organizations to connect individuals to job opportunities.
The organization serves job seekers from a wide range of backgrounds, including people who were formerly incarcerated.
During Monday’s ceremony, Goodwill recognized three individuals as “Graduates of the Year,” including Thomas Fry, who rebuilt his life after addiction and a criminal record. He earned welding certifications and secured full-time employment with Royston, a commercial cabinet manufacturer, a statement said.
Fry now mentors other students and recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for workforce development and represent Goodwill of North Georgia on Capital Hill.
Also honored was Robert Thomas, a single father who lived in his car while completing Goodwill’s Welding program. He is now employed as a welding apprentice with mechanical contractor McKenney’s Inc.
“With stable housing and a long-term career path in place, he is focused on building a better future for his family,” Goodwill said.
Kathy Augustus, another honoree, completed the medical billing and coding program while managing personal challenges and studying independently, the statement said. She’s now employed by United Healthcare and thriving in her new role.
Collectively, the 781 graduates highlight “the value of accessible training and the long-term impact of workforce-focused nonprofits in building resilient communities,” Goodwill’s statement reads.
These are the stories that rarely get told. So glad to find it!