Toni learned about Goodwill’s digital skills program while at the library looking for resources. A part-time employee at the airport, Toni’s goal was to find a distraction from grieving the loss of her two sisters.
Toni started her digital adventure with the Digital Skills Hub class taught by Goodwill Career Facilitator Mindy Spencer.
“Mindy was so patient,” Toni recalls. “There were so many different types of people in the class, and most of us knew very little. By the time we finished, everyone had a lot of knowledge. It inspired me to learn more.”
Toni was so touched by Mindy as an instructor, that on her final day of class, she sang a personalized rendition of “You Are My Sunshine” to her.
Equipped with a new device offered to those who complete the program, Toni decided graduating from Digital Skills Hub was not the conclusion of her digital learning, but rather, the beginning.
Driven by a pure desire to expand her knowledge, she moved onto Digital Skills for Life, taught by Goodwill Digital Facilitator Benny Lam. This program offers continuous, focused classes on hot topics like AI, online banking, and how to spot phishing scams.
Benny noticed right away how unique Toni’s commitment was.
“It’s rare that I see someone who takes advantage of all the classes we have,” he said. “Toni is coming in genuinely just to learn—learning for learning’s sake.”
Toni feels great about what she’s accomplished. She tells people considering the classes, “You won’t know until you try!” and encourages everyone to meet Mindy and Benny.
Toni’s story proves that simply showing up and keeping an open mind can lead to not only valuable skills but also a lasting sense of confidence.
