Brian’s Story of Strength, Change, and New Beginnings
At Palmetto Goodwill, we believe in the power of second chances, and few stories illustrate that better than Brian’s. His journey is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and transformation.
Brian’s path to success wasn’t easy. He came to us through our partnership with Horry County Drug Treatment Court, determined to rebuild his life after years of struggle. Finding employment was a major hurdle—each interview ended in rejection, and his past seemed to overshadow his potential. Despite these setbacks, Brian refused to give up.
His breakthrough came when a counselor introduced him to Palmetto Goodwill’s I-CAN reentry program, an opportunity that would ultimately change his life.
Skeptical at first, he decided to take a chance. That decision led him to our North Myrtle Beach retail location, where he became the first I-CAN participant at the store. Under the guidance of store manager James Collins, Brian found more than just a job—he found a purpose.
From the moment he joined the team, Brian’s dedication and work ethic stood out. He embraced the opportunity, proving that his past did not define him. The positive feedback he received gave him the confidence he had long been searching for, and in time, he grew into a natural leader. He became a mentor to new I-CAN participants, sharing his experiences to inspire others to stay the course. “I share my story with them to illustrate that change is possible,” he said. “I encourage them to be consistent and to give their all. If they do, they will notice significant changes and personal growth.”
After successfully completing the program, we were thrilled to offer Brian a permanent position at our North Myrtle Beach store. His success not only strengthened our partnership with the Drug Treatment Court but also paved the way for more individuals to follow in his footsteps.
“Being here is a blessing, and I am incredibly thankful for the chance I’ve been given when no one else believed in me,” Brian said.
His dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact, not just within the store but also in the lives of those following in his footsteps. Because of this, Brian was chosen to speak at the Grand Strand I-CAN Graduation, where he shared his story with new graduates. His words inspired them to stay the course and believe in their ability to create a better future.
Brian’s story is a testament to resilience, the impact of support systems, and the opportunities that come with determination. He has built a new life—one filled with stability, purpose, and hope. And most importantly, he now helps others see that they, too, can rise above their past and create a future worth fighting for.
Interested in learning more about the I-CAN reentry program? Visit palmettogoodwill.org/ICAN to learn how the program helps individuals rebuild their lives through training, employment, mentorship, and second chances.
