At Northwest University in Kirkland, everywhere Courtney Williams turns fellow students greet, smile and wave. Now in his third semester at the school, he feels right at home and loves the small college campus. “I’m thinking about a major in communications/marketing or teaching – my dream is to touch other peoples’ lives, especially teens, that’s where my heart is.”

Williams, the second youngest of eight, spent early childhood watching his older brother and sister fight and abuse alcohol and drugs. “I was in high school and I just had to get out of there,” Williams said. He spent a short time homeless, embarrassed to ask for help. “I finally told my school counselor who helped me get placed into foster care.”

In the summer of 2009, Williams visited the high school’s Career Center and found out about Goodwill’s STEPS Summer Employment program. STEPS offers teens and young adults training and employment preparation services. “I met Courtney when he interviewed for the summer program,” said J.R. Nobles, STEPS program manager. “He was so full of potential; all he needed was opportunity and assistance to fully maximize that potential.”

Williams looks forward to a future of giving back using his personal experience and hardship to relate to young people. “Remembering all those individuals who helped me get here – teachers, counselors, J.R. – I want to be like that, to give support to teens that need it.”