Mission Magazine_FALL 25_FINAL_WEB

Kaitlin Logan’S ACADEMY SUCCESS LEADS TO DREAM CAREER

At just 16 years old, Kaitlin Logan faced the challenges of becoming a mother and made the difficult decision to leave high school to support her family. For years, she worked to make ends meet, but deep down she knew she wanted more—for herself and for her children.

Scan this QR code to see Kaitlin’s inspirational story.

One day, Kaitlin decided it was time to finish what she started. That’s when she discovered The Excel Center®, Goodwill’s tuition-free adult high school, where free childcare made it possible for her to focus on her edu- cation.

With determination and encouragement from her teachers and life coach, Kaitlin earned her high school diploma. “The teachers and life coaches were great. They were my inspiration. They kept me going,” she shared. But Kaitlin’s journey didn’t end there. Guided by her life coach, she en- rolled in The Academy at Goodwill’s Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program, allowing her to pursue her lifelong passion for healthcare. The program gave her the hands-on skills and confi - dence she needed to take the next step toward a meaningful career. Today, Kaitlin is thriving at Arkansas Children’s Hospital as both a CCMA and ophthalmic technician. Her story is a pow- erful reminder that it’s never too late to change your path. As Kaitlin says, “I needed to find something I already knew in my heart where I wanted to be—and I feel like I found that place.”

The Academy at Goodwill in Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas recently marked an incredible milestone—our largest graduating class to date! A total of 83 students successfully completed training in our “Big Four” programs: 39 Certified Clinical Medical Assistants, 18 Pharmacy Technicians, 22 Welders, and four NCCER Construction graduates. These students worked hard to gain industry- recognized credentials that prepare them for stable, higher-paying careers in Arkansas’ most in-demand fields. Their success not only reflects their dedication, but also the commitment of our talented instructors who guide, mentor, and support them every step of the way. Every graduate represents more than a certificate—it’s a step toward financial independence, stronger families, and thriving communities. At Goodwill, we are proud to provide pathways to opportunity through education and workforce training, and this record graduation is proof of lives being transformed. THE ACADEMY CELEBRATES LARGEST GRADUATING CLASS TO DATE

Congratulations to our ACADEMY graduates!

Earn industry credentials and certifications that lead directly to employment in jobs that guarantee a living wage.

THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE

learn more at goodwillar.org/academy

13 mission magazine / volume 3 / FALL 2025

Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator