Client Success Story : Sonja

Moving back to Abilene to care for family was supposed to be the beginning of a new journey for law enforcement officer, Sonja. Unfortunately, a life-altering injury would put her on a path she never expected to take.

After over 20 years of service in law enforcement, most recently as a Deputy Sheriff, Sonja chose to move back to Abilene to help care for her sister’s family. While waiting for a position at a local law enforcement agency to become available, Sonja began working in the evenings as a school janitor. One night while cleaning in a chemistry classroom, a large, marble-top table broke, falling onto her, resulting in severe injuries. The accident caused damage to Sonja’s leg, hip, shoulder, and neck which required multiple surgeries. The trauma to her hip was so debilitating, she was unable to walk for a year. Due to varying circumstances with Sonja’s case, it would be 11 years before she would begin receiving disability assistance.

While still recovering, Sonja’s lease ended, with her new lease falling through, leaving her abruptly homeless. During this time, Goodwill West Texas was assisting people in the community through a limited time housing stabilization program, funded by a grant. Through this program, Goodwill was able to cover Sonja’s deposit and administrative fee for a new apartment. After some time, she finally received her Social Security Disability Insurance and was able to purchase a car with the back pay.

Now that she had a car and stable housing, Sonja was ready to get back on a path to her new normal. She returned to Goodwill for assistance with obtaining a driver’s license, opening a bank account, and starting her next journey. From her previous experience with Goodwill, she knew she could trust our Mission team. Our Employment Resource Specialists helped her obtain a paid volunteer position with the Foster Grandparent Program. Sonja now serves as a mentor, tutor, and role model for 2nd grade children, providing one-on-one support to help with their academic, social, and emotional development. Sonja’s background in law enforcement and passion for helping others has fueled her to continue giving back to her community, making a difference in the lives of the next generation, despite having to overcome such challenges.

Sonja has volunteered as a Foster Grandparent for over a year now. When she talks about her life in this program, she describes being in her “destiny.” Goodwill West Texas is proud to work with clients like Sonja every day. We are thankful for the donations that allow us to serve those who make our community a better place.

Posted By: Rinni Finley - Goodwill West Texas Communications & Marketing Coordinator

May 6, 2025