Michelle Hersey went into the military at a young age, leaving Birmingham, Alabama for the Mojave Desert and joining the challenging ranks of the U.S. Marines. Being accepted into the Marine Corp means passing the difficult ASVAB exam, which Michelle scored high on. “I’m very proud of that,” she shares, describing the dedication it took to join and excel in her role as a communications specialist. She spent three years setting up communication hubs and mastering practical radio operations in the harsh desert environment, building resilience and forming lifelong relationships with her peers.  

But transitioning from military life proved challenging. Michelle and her family faced repeated hardships, including periods of homelessness. Yet, through every setback, her spirit remained unbroken. “We’re fighters,” she says. “We’re not going to quit.” That unwavering resolve carried her forward, seeing her children grow into independent and successful adults. Today, Michelle embraces her identity as a mother and grandmother, cherishing the legacy she is building. 

Amid the uncertainty brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Michelle’s commitment to community service flourished. She co-founded a support group for African American mothers, filling a gap in connection and advocacy. It was through this renewed community involvement that Michelle discovered Goodwill. An unexpected encounter at an event led her to join Goodwill’s Veterans Employment Training and Support Program, providing her with resources and support during a critical time. 

“Meeting Goodwill’s representative was a turning point,” Michelle recalls. “They told me about the veteran's program, and I was all in.” With personalized guidance from staff members like Taylor Schmidt, who checked in regularly and offered resumé help and job leads, Michelle felt supported and valued. “Taylor’s amazing. Her emails are always full of helpful, detailed information,” Michelle says with gratitude. 

Now, Michelle’s focus is on self-sufficiency. Certified as a notary, she is working toward becoming a loan signing agent—a step toward her goal of running her own business and securing a lasting legacy for her family. “It will be greater later,” she tells her children, a message that resonates with the hope and resilience she embodies. 

This Veterans Day, we honor those who have served in the military and who, like Michelle, bring that courage and dedication to a life of continued service to their communities.