Success Stories
Success Stories
Success Stories Meet Emily. Emily Brudnicki, a recent graduate of our Project SEARCH program at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, first learned about it from her sister, Brittani, a previous graduate. Encouraged by her high school teacher, Emily initially hesitated to leave her two-year work-based learning program. Brittani’s enthusiasm changed Emily’s mind. She invited Emily to visit the Project SEARCH classroom and tour the hospital, helping her feel comfortable with the transition. Thanks to this support, Emily joined Project SEARCH and quickly blossomed, gaining confidence, making friends, and developing essential skills. During Emily’s second rotation (in food service), tragedy struck when her younger sister, Tammy, was hit by a bus and hospitalized. In this difficult time, the Goodwill team rallied around Emily. Food Service Manager, Jerri Comi, supported Emily, ensuring visits to Tammy during breaks. After multiple surgeries, Tammy made a remarkable recovery, and Emily’s family expressed deep gratitude for the emotional support they received. The bonds formed in the Project SEARCH program were invaluable, with Emily’s father highlighting the joy of seeing his daughters share lunch together. As Emily approached graduation, a full-time job opened up in the hospital’s food service department. She applied and was thrilled to receive an offer with above-minimum wage pay and benefits. Her parents were overjoyed, appreciating how Goodwill listened to Emily’s interests and aspirations throughout the job search. Now, Emily is learning vital skills like work-life balance and time management. She plans to save her paycheck for a car, demonstrating her commitment to independence. Thanks to her supportive work family, Emily feels valued and confident as she embarks on her professional journey. To make a financial donation to help others like Emily, click HERE. Meet Vonice. Vonice Green’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and transformation. In 2011, she was sentenced to 15 years of incarceration, yet she remained committed to personal growth, completing her sentence without a single disciplinary infraction. During her time incarcerated, Vonice discovered a passion for the green industry. She earned her Florida Nursery, Growers, and Landscape Association (FNGLA) Florida Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP) credential—a milestone that fueled her ambition. Her dedication and discipline later led to a transfer to the Goodwill-Suncoast Re-entry Center, where she gained valuable hands-on experience at American Plant Exchange. Her strong work ethic and professionalism quickly earned the respect of those around her. With the support of Goodwill’s re-entry initiatives and the Pathways Program, Vonice transformed her vision of business ownership into reality, officially launching North Florida Plant Nursery & Landscaping Design on August 18, 2024. Within weeks, she secured her first major contract with O-Luxury Realty LLC, establishing herself as a rising entrepreneur in the industry. Her success is a powerful testament to the impact of second chances and the value of restorative programs that equip individuals to reintegrate successfully. Vonice’s story underscores the importance of reentry support in reducing recidivism and fostering meaningful contributions to society. Through hope, hard work, and opportunity, she is proving that new beginnings are always possible. To make a financial donation to help others like Vonice, click HERE.