Leon, who is blind, thrives working at Goodwill store

Leon Proctor wishes everyone knew that not all people who are blind or visually impaired are the same. Leon is blind and he said while some people with blindness need a lot of help, that isn’t always the case. 

“I wish people would ask blind people if they need help, not just assume,” Leon said. “It affects me every day. I went to a specialized school in New Orleans that helped me be an independent blind person. It’s a very unique situation that builds self-confidence, awareness.” 

Leon is a greeter at the Auburn, Maine store. He has been with Goodwill for about four years. Shoppers may recognize Leon as Santa, which he dresses up as during the holidays. He’s always making customers smile or making their day with his greetings and conversations.  

Goodwill’s mission to help people

Goodwill’s mission to invest in people who need support to achieve their work and life goals and programs drew Leon to work for the nonprofit. He’s especially proud of the relationships he’s built with customers.  

A boy who has autism and is nonverbal regularly shops at the Auburn store with his mom. Leon typically greets the boy with a high-five, but one day the child gave him a hug. Leon said this was “pretty amazing” and a big moment for the child, the child’s mother and Leon himself. 

“It really struck me to work at Goodwill because the foundation of Goodwill is to help people,” he said. “It really struck me to be a part of that. I love my job.” 

“People are starting to take notice that people with disabilities are able to participate and give back to their communities,” Leon said. 

Thank you for all you do at Goodwill and for sharing your story, Leon! Want to work with us? We’re hiring, click here for a list of open positions.