b'GERARDO I really like to learn and I was given the opportunity here to learn different In His Own Words aspects of the job.I was born and raised here in Atwater Village from atypicalimmigrantMexicanfamilythatishard working. My parents are who taught me and my three brothers how to value work. At a young age I joined a gang and started a cycle of coming in and out of prison.This last time I was in prison, I got out and applied to a program that hires convicts. I didnt look at this job as a career, but more of a stepping stone. Goodwill is recognized worldwide, so if Goodwill will give me a shot, why wouldnt another company give me one? I really like to learn and I was given the opportunity here to learn different aspects of the job. Working here has motivated me because Ive found somewhere where people trust me and Ive become a supervisor in less than two years.Ive been through a lot in my life, especially as a single father. One of my daughters passed away and my other daughter of 17 was diagnosed with cancer at 9 years old. Shes a survivor and is the reason I fight so hard to stay afloat.'