Mature Job-Seeker With Disabilities Finds a Job and a Purpose in Life

Athena Monk, an African-American woman in her late fifties, had lived across the street from Goodwill’s Astoria headquarters all her life. Unable to find a job for many years, she finally joined Goodwill’s VIP program in early 2008. Ms. Monk has multiple disabilities. The program offers training and employment support services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

After a series of job assessments, she chose to work in retail. She was hired to work as a production worker at the East Harlem store in September 2008. In this position, she hangs and racks clothes for sale.

Supported Employment at Goodwill’s VIP Program