Chris used to tag the streets of Denver with graffiti. He was good at it, too. But all of his creative energy was going into something that was defacing property and having run-ins with law enforcement. Along with the tagging lifestyle, he was also making poor decisions that were leading him down a dangerous path.
Goodwill case managers at Sheridan High School recognized the creative talent in Chris and wanted to steer him away from a life of crime. They got him involved in a Goodwill program where he had the opportunity to intern with a local marketing and branding firm and Chris was able to redirect his creative energy into something positive and productive.
“I was getting into trouble doing graffiti on the streets, but I wanted to do more than just work with a spray can. That was getting me nowhere."
Chris knew he had talent and knew that he could be a great artist, but with no experience and no connections… He just didn’t know how.
Thanks to Goodwill and its internship program, he was able to design websites, learn to film and edit, he created advertising concepts that were selected by clients. He brainstormed, designed and created.
“It’s cool because we feed off of everybody’s ideas, put those ideas together and come up with something great.”
Goodwill Industries of Denver recognizes the potential in every student, even if it may be hard to see. Everyone in our community must work and it’s up to us to make sure that each and every young person learns the skills they need to be productive and successful adults in the future. Goodwill is making success a reality for at-risk youth like Chris in our community through education, empowerment and employment.
“This program has given me experience in the creative field. This has given me the confidence to be wildly creative and create something that nobody has ever seen – in fashion, artwork, sculpture, interior design – I mean, I want to do all of it.”
Goodwill Industries of Denver seeks to reverse the cycle of poverty through career development and skills training for at-risk youth, struggling families and individuals with disabilities. When you shop or donate to Goodwill, you are creating opportunities for people to change their lives and live to their fullest potential.
