Michele Herrera had it all. A career, a home, a family, and a great life. Once chance encounter with a ghost from her past sent reeling down a terrible cycle of drug addiction and incarceration that caused her to lose everything. After losing custody of her two youngest children, Michele knew that she would need to achieve sobriety if she ever wanted to see them again. After several years and several arrests, that’s what she did. After kicking her habit, Michele was broken and homeless, yet sober and determined. She was ready for a change.
While staying at the Presbyterian Night Shelter, Michele met with Goodwill staff at True Worth Place and began her new life by getting a job. Once she gained her confidence back, she began working on temporary work assignments for Goodwill Staffing Services (GSS), a full-service temporary staffing agency that helps remove barriers to employment.
After four years of working with various GSS employers, Michele found employment with the Texas Department of Transportation, where she is currently growing and thriving. Through the Power of Work, faith and support from her family, Michele believes she has been redeemed. This is her story.