When did you begin your career with Goodwill?
I began working at Goodwill in June of 2023, after receiving my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and Finance from California State University, Bakersfield. 

What is your life “motto” or favorite quote?
“Life’s a journey, with problems to solve, lessons to learn, but most importantly, experiences to enjoy.”

What is your favorite thing to do?
My favorite things to do are spending time with family, going to the beach, going to concerts and visiting new places.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was little I wanted to be a teacher, I have always liked helping others.

When did you begin your career with Goodwill?
I began my career with Goodwill on April 24th, 2023. I have previously worked within the hospitality/care industry, as I would like to say, with Greenlawn Funeral Homes as well as over 6 years’ worth of retail experience. I am currently finishing my bachelor’s degree in business marketing from the University of Phoenix and am very excited for where it will lead me.

What is your life “motto” or favorite quote?
“If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney

What is your favorite thing to do?
Reading a good book with my toes in the warm sand by the sea.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an Artist. I loved drawing as soon as I was able to hold a pencil/write.

What is the best book you have ever read?
Tuesdays with Morrie. I highly recommend this book to readers of all ages, as there’s so much insight and a different perspective on life lessons shared that is applicable to all. I cherish this book and know someone else would enjoy it as well. This book made me laugh, cry, gasp, and smile at the little moments Morrie shares. It changes your perspective on Life.

Marian Torres is the Assessment and Employment Specialist who began her career with Goodwill in 2021. Marian started as a Retail Clerk in the Lemoore store, moved up to Supervisor, then a Mission Assessment Coordinator in 2022 and now serves as the Assessment and Employment Specialist. Marian has a background in the food service industry as well as retail. Marian is passionate about helping people and making a positive impact in their lives.

Favorite book: “My favorite book would be, “The Circuit” by Francisco Jimenez. It’s a humbling, touching, autobiography, to which I relate deeply.”

What is your favorite thing to do? “I love thrift shopping, reading, and spending time in nature!”

What three traits define you? “Ambitious, Compassionate, and Creative.”

Jillian began her career with Goodwill Industries of South Central California in the summer of 2021. Her position is Human Resource Generalist. Jillian has a wide variety of administrative experience over the last 10 years of her career. She has a strong passion for working within the Non-Profit sector and serving the local community.

In her free time, you can find her on a disc golf course, spending time with her family, watching football, at the dirt track or going on adventures.

Favorite quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead

Favorite book: I love the meaning behind Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

Greatest adventure: I had the privilege of living in Okinawa, Japan for three years. I learned so many great things about the culture and slow-paced lifestyle. The experience truly made me a better person and have a different outlook on life.

Mayra Quevedo is the Human Resource Generalist and started at Goodwill in October of 2014 and has prior experience as an office associate and substitute teacher. Mayra holds a degree in Liberal Studies from California State University, Bakersfield.

Favorite quote: “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” – Maya Angelou

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? “When I was little, I wanted to be a flight attendant. Traveling has always been a passion of mine.”

What is your favorite thing to do? “My favorite thing to do is to travel. Traveling and exploring new places is important to me because I want my children to experience other cultures.”

Esther has 25 years of experience in the retail and finance industries with positions as a Customer Service Representative, Coordinator, Administrative Assistant and Executive Assistant. She has also been a Personal Assistant to investors with affiliations in entertainment, production and real estate. In 2005 she moved to Bakersfield and worked part time as an Assistant in her father’s trucking company while raising a family and completing her education. Throughout her life, she has advocated for the disabled and medically uninsured and wanted to be part of an organization where its mission is to help others. In 2015, she came to Goodwill on a temporary assignment and a month later was hired on as a full-time employee. Esther began her career at Goodwill as a Customer Service Coordinator, promoted to Benefits Coordinator and in 2019 became Executive Assistant to the President and CEO.

“From the beginning of my career at Goodwill Industries of South Central California, I have witnessed the positive impact this organization has on people with barriers and the community. I am grateful for the opportunity Goodwill has given me to fulfill my mission and be part of a team who inspires others to make a difference.”

Favorite quote: “Music is the universal language of mankind.” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

What is your favorite thing to do? “Listening to my husband play the piano with such passion while I cook then watching my kids devour the food I cooked, with passion!”

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? “I wanted to be a pro wrestler/comedian. Cracking jokes in between body slams sounds like fun.”