Empowering Adults: Goodwill's Excel Center Helps Earn Diplomas and Build Confidence

The Excel Center, a tuition-free high school for adults run by Goodwill, is empowering individuals to earn their diplomas, build confidence, and prepare for life beyond the classroom. The program offers students a chance to achieve these goals through its tailored support and resources.

Jacob Barrett, who has autism and Usher syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes hearing loss, vision loss, and balance issues, is one such success story. He graduated from the program and now works full-time at Goodwill as a ShopGoodwill product specialist.

"They don't let you quit," Barrett said. "They make you persevere and bring out the best in you educationally, socially, and work-wise."

Barrett recalled times when he felt like giving up, but the support he received was tailored to his needs. He credited one of his teachers, Miss Susan, for helping him through those tough times.

"I got discouraged about passing Math ECA, but I had this one lady named Miss Susan, and she would not let me quit," Barrett said. "He said 'You can't quit, you're going to be a success story. You just can't quit.'"

The Excel Center also offers certificates for students who want to further their education after earning their diploma. Additionally, the program provides free transportation and childcare services for students. With 24 locations across Indiana, The Excel Center is making a significant impact.

"We are now at 10,000 people that have graduated from The Excel Center in Indiana," said Betsy Delgado, chief mission and education officer at Goodwill. "We want to keep adding to that number because we're building the workforce that Indiana needs to be able to move into the future."

Barrett is proud of his accomplishments, including earning a certificate in computer technology. He wholeheartedly recommends The Excel Center to anyone.

"They helped me get a better job, they helped me get more time at work, and it's a really great program," Barrett said.