When Arvell “AJ” Hall first met with Goodwill North Central Texas’ Vocational Rehabilitation team, he lacked confidence. He had worked in customer service and environmental service jobs in the past, but he still faced challenges in communication and daily life activities. With the help of the Center for Transition, his special educators in White Settlement ISD, and Texas Workforce Solutions, AJ was referred to Goodwill to assist him in developing work readiness skills so that he could become gainfully employed.
In January 2022, AJ began Vocational Adjustment Training (VAT), designed to provide skills and knowledge for people with disabilities to become work and job ready. AJ completed his Vocational Adjustment Training soon after and transitioned into a Paid Work Experience with CVS and the Bedford Movie Tavern.
This integrated environment allowed AJ to enhance his employability and interpersonal skills. Throughout his time in the program, his managers noted his initiative in completing tasks and his attention to detail. He always displayed a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn.
In January 2023, AJ was hired with ABM Environmental Services and began working with White Settlement ISD, where he is thriving. AJ feels that Goodwill gave him a hand up to greater opportunities; stating without the services and training he received, he would not have been able to find employment on his own.
