Blog

In the fall of 1988, Rhodelia Fabroa migrated from the Philippines to the United States with the dream of starting a new life, beginning a career, and establishing herself in America. She received her bachelor’s degree in marine biology, but struggled to find consistent, quality employment without local experience or connections.

Enrolling in Evergreen Goodwill’s free job training and education programs offered her a lifeline, providing a 9-month training program that allowed Rhodelia and her sisters to learn, work, and earn at the same time. Despite the 5:45 AM bus commutes from Bothell, she committed to the program.

Now recently retired, Rhodelia reflects on her journey with Goodwill for over 35 years serving in different roles and stores, and experiencing leadership changes. Across her career, she worked with 14 managers and five CEOs at seven different Goodwill stores – Seattle, Tukwila, Bellevue, Everett, Ballard, Shoreline, and Mt. Vernon. She also became active in the planning committee and crafting the organization’s mission statement, helping shape the organization’s nonprofit work.

Rhodelia and Goodwill experienced challenges over the course of her career, including recessions and the impact of COVID-19. But she remained resilient alongside the organization and committed to our mission. Goodwill became an essential resource and community for Rhodelia and so many other immigrants who have faced challenges finding employment instilling in them the belief that perseverance, collaboration, and participating in community can lead to success.

“I’ve always said that the only constant in life is change, and Goodwill is no exception. Through everything, we have stayed focused on what is most important – how we can better serve our community.”