Sometimes, moving forward starts with one person believing in you.
For Matthew and Deavante, that support came at a time when they were working to build more stable futures for themselves and their families.Through Goodwill of Orange County’s LifeLaunch GO program, they found more than career training. They found resources, guidance and people who were ready to stand beside them as they took their next steps.
Designed for young adults ages 18–24, who have been involved in the justice system or are at risk of becoming involved, LifeLaunch GO helps participants overcome barriers, build career skills and create a path toward greater independence.
For Matthew and Deavante, it became an opportunity to start a new chapter.
Finding Stability and Support
When Matthew first connected with Goodwill OC, he was experiencing homelessness and living in his car with his dog. After hearing about forklift certification training available through Goodwill OC, he saw an opportunity to begin moving forward.
Through the program, Matthew received vital training and resources that helped him secure work as a security guard and a customer service representative at Angel Stadium.
But as a single father, Matthew’s needs extended beyond finding employment. Staying employed and providing for his family sometimes meant overcoming everyday challenges, from transportation to the rising cost of basic necessities.
That’s where his Goodwill OC Case Manager, Jose, came in.
“Goodwill OC has helped me tremendously as a father,” Matthew said. “Supporting a family can be difficult, and even essentials like diapers can add up. Jose, my case manager, has always been there when I needed help, whether it was gas to get back and forth to work or diapers, wipes and other necessities for my son.”
That individualized support has given Matthew someone he can turn to as he continues working toward his goals.
Building a Career for His Family
Deavante came to LifeLaunch GO with a different story, but a similar motivation.
After spending time in the foster care system at a young age, he later became a father himself. He knew he wanted to create greater stability for his children and began looking for opportunities that could lead to a lasting career.
Deavante had been pursuing tattooing, but becoming a father motivated him to consider a different path. After being introduced to LifeLaunch GO, he began pursuing welding and committed himself to building a future that could provide more opportunities for his family.
“When I had my second child, I knew I needed to keep going and find a career that could help me give my kids a better life,” Deavante said. “The program helped me move toward welding while also supporting my family with things like diapers, wipes and gas cards.”
For Deavante, career training and practical support came together with one larger purpose: creating a better future for his children.
Someone in Your Corner
Participants enter LifeLaunch GO from different backgrounds and circumstances, but many are navigating significant barriers while doing their best to create stability in their lives.
Sometimes, an unexpected expense, transportation issue or other life challenge can make staying on track difficult. LifeLaunch GO is designed to help participants navigate those obstacles while continuing to work toward their personal and professional goals.
Just as importantly, participants have someone willing to listen.
Chris, Program Manager for LifeLaunch GO, has seen what can happen when participants realize they have someone in their corner.
“Many participants have a difficult time opening up at first because they’ve faced so much,” Chris said. “Having someone there to listen without judgment, help them work through barriers and guide them along the way can make a tremendous difference. We’ve seen so much growth in the individuals who have come through this program.”
That sense of connection has made an impression on Matthew, too. As he continues building his own future, he has also recognized how the resources he has learned about could help others in his community.
“One of the things I appreciate most about Goodwill OC is the number of resources and options available and how knowledgeable the team is,” Matthew said. “I want to learn about these resources because I know other people who could use this kind of help, too. It has motivated me to stay consistent with my job, keep bettering myself and continue striving every day.”
A Chance to Keep Moving Forward
Matthew and Deavante’s journeys are their own, but both demonstrate what can happen when determination is met with the right support.
A career certification can open a door. A gas card can help someone get to work. Diapers and wipes can ease pressure on a young parent. And having someone who will listen without judgment can remind a person that they do not have to navigate every challenge alone.
Through LifeLaunch GO, Goodwill of Orange County is helping young adults move beyond the barriers they have faced and focus on what comes next.
For Matthew and Deavante, that means continuing to show up, provide for their families and build the futures they envision for themselves and their children.
Learn more about LifeLaunch GO and Goodwill OC’s workforce development programs at www.ocgoodwill.org/workforce-development/
