Jessica Found Confidence, Community and a Career

After being out of work for five years, Jessica was ready for a change, but the thought of finding employment felt overwhelming. 

Her counselor at Hiawatha Valley Mental Health referred her to Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota’s (GESMN) Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program, which provides personalized job placement and support to Olmsted, Winona and Wabasha County residents. 

In January 2025, Jessica began working with her career navigator, Sara. At first, Jessica doubted whether she could land a job, let alone feel confident in one. “Jessica lacked confidence that she could do a good job or even get employed,” Sara recalled. 

Together, they applied for roles and navigated multiple interviews. Early rejections were discouraging, but Jessica stayed determined. “Jessica pushed through her discouragement and doubts,” Sara said. Having someone to talk to throughout the process made a big difference. “I was encouraged by the one-on-ones,” Jessica shared. 

From Self-Doubt to ‘Employee of the Month’ 

Jessica’s persistence paid off. In May, she was hired as a cashier at Fleet Farm and quickly stood out as a leader. She was recognized as Employee of the Month for her customer interactions, initiative and ability to organize products. 

Sara noticed the transformation: “Her confidence has grown immensely and is noticed by people around her.” Jessica even pushed herself outside her comfort zone by positioning herself at the end of the register to greet customers and start conversations. 

When they first met, Jessica kept conversations short. Now, she engages fully and often leads discussions. At a recent appointment, Jessica proudly identified her own mental health growth and her new ability to set boundaries. 

New Career Goals  

Today, Jessica balances work with raising two teenagers. Her long-term goal is working full-time in the mental health field. She already holds a bachelor’s degree in social work and hopes to earn her master’s degree.  

Jessica already achieved her immediate career goal: securing employment and financial stability so she no longer has to rely on savings to make ends meet. 

New Skills and a Bright Future 

Through IPS, Jessica developed problem-solving skills, creativity, confidence and initiative. Sara helped her clearly understand job opportunities and encouraged her growth every step of the way. 

With newfound confidence, a job she enjoys and clear goals for the future, Jessica is ready for what’s next. Sara shared, “Jessica is confident in pursuing long-term goals in education and advanced employment,” already taking the initiative to research her next steps. Her drive to help others and grow professionally is also reflected in her volunteer work. 

For the past year, Jessica served as a facilitator for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), leading peer discussions on living with mental illness. Her favorite part? Listening to deep conversations and hearing ideas and experiences shared among group members. She is giving back to others who balance mental health and their careers. 

Learn more about all the services and programs GESMN offers to create career possibilities. 

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