CHARLOTTE, N.C.,None — Goodwill Industries is gearing up for a big event next week, in part to celebrate its mission of putting people to work.
In 2008, the agency helped nearly 3,000 people get jobs.
Eyewitness News anchor Erica Bryant talked to one man who said Goodwill gave him a second chance after he served time in prison.
Wayne Brown said he is grateful for his second chance every day he works.
"I had some domestic violence issues and was subsequently sent to prison for 12 months," Brown said.
After he was released, his criminal record made it difficult to find work, he said.
"Going from job to job and knowing you were qualified and being turned down -- it was really getting discouraging," he said.
Brown turned to Goodwill, and career development specialist Charles Reid helped him with his resume and interview skills.
"How to articulate what was on his record, and maybe how to write a letter of explanation about it to an employer," Reid said. "But he was focused when he got here."
The agency's mission is to "change lives through the power of work."
With the poor economy, more people are coming to the organization for help.
Over the past three years, the number of people seeking assistance from Goodwill tripled, to nearly 18,000.
"Any aspect of offering assistance to get that job, that's what I'm here for," Reid said.
Brown went through a Goodwill program for ex-offenders and learned to repair heating and air conditioning units, he said, which put him in position to re-enter the work force.
Now, he oversees several crews.
"Through Goodwill … thankfully, I'm able to support my family," he said. "My family's happy, and I'm happy also."
Brown has encouraging words for others who are trying to get their lives back on track.
"Don't give up," he said. "If they are willing to sacrifice and make a commitment, they can make it, too."
Next week, Brown will be presented with a "Good Work" award from Goodwill for his accomplishments at the agency's cornerstone celebration.
For more information about Goodwill, click here.