Jan Gifford

“I used to be a fashion model,” says Jan.  In the 1990’s, Goodwill held a fashion show featuring Goodwill clients—a memory that sticks out in Jan’s mind as she thinks of Goodwill’s 50th anniversary and its importance to her.  

“We’ve grown up with Goodwill,” says her mother, Jane.

After Jan attended a private school for children with Down’s syndrome, the Gifford family found Goodwill and found a lifetime partnership.

Goodwill and Jan have worked together for 10 years on finding employment in the Nashville community.  Jan’s resume includes Taco Bell, Food Max, Bruno’s, and Kroger to name a few.  

“She likes the public and is especially good with children,” says her mother.  Right now, Jan bags groceries at the Nipper’s Corner Kroger and fills in as greeter, too.  “I really want to be[come] a cashier,” says Jan, who holds a 5 year tenure at Kroger.  

As it is for most people, holding a steady job is important for Jan and her family.  “It gives her something to do and the paycheck helps support the family,” says Jane.