Arianna’s Path to Employment Through the Goodwill NNE and Hannaford Partnership

At the Hannaford in South Portland, customer service associate Arianna Bulger is known for her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. Whether she’s bagging groceries, gathering carts, assisting with returns, or helping customers find what they need, Arianna approaches every task with a smile.

“I like to help out,” Arianna said. “They say that I’m a great role model here in the store.”

Over time, Arianna has built confidence, developed new skills, and become a valued member of the Hannaford team. Her journey is one example of how partnerships between employers and community organizations can create opportunities for people to thrive.

Creating Opportunities Through Partnership

Arianna’s employment journey was made possible through the partnership between Goodwill Northern New England and Hannaford. Through work-based learning experiences, employment support, and community partnerships, individuals can gain valuable workplace experience and build pathways to meaningful employment.

“The partnership that Hannaford has with Goodwill is critical,” said Chad Leighton, Business Engagement Manager at Goodwill NNE. “Without community partners, these activities don’t happen. People don’t get the experience they need.”

For many participants, opportunities begin with a chance to explore a workplace, develop skills, and gain real-world experience.

“Typically, a placement could start out as a work-based learning experience,” Chad explained. “They get a chance to actually do some of the work at Hannaford. It could be stocking shelves, getting carts, or bagging groceries so they gain real-world, hands-on experience.”

Hannaford has been a vital partner in helping Goodwill participants gain the experience and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace.

Becoming a Valued Team Member

Since joining Hannaford, Arianna has become an important part of the customer service team. Her supervisors and coworkers describe her as dependable, proactive, and consistently positive.

“I’ve been working here with Arianna for three or four years now,” said Nathalie Libby, Assistant Manager of Customer Service at Hannaford. “She is always in the brightest of spirits. She has the most positive attitude and is willing to help anyone and everyone.”

Natalie says Arianna often notices when customers need assistance before they even ask.

“She’s honestly one of our best associates here for anything and everything you need,” she said.

Arianna’s success has also been supported by Goodwill NNE’s Vocational Rehabilitation team.

“We provide on-site and off-site support for her, and she’s been an excellent employee,” said Emma Goldbas, Vocational Support Advisor at Goodwill Northern New England. “She received Employee of the Month in March, has trained other employees, and has exceeded everybody’s expectations with her work ethic and commitment to Hannaford.”

The combination of supportive coworkers, dedicated employment services, and Arianna’s determination has helped her thrive.

Growing in Confidence

For Arianna, employment has been about more than earning a paycheck. It has helped her build confidence and step outside her comfort zone.

“I’m proud of my confidence and getting out of my comfort zone while working here,” she said. “I get out of my comfort zone every day, not just at work but at home as well.”

She credits the people around her for helping make the experience so positive.

“My experience has been so wonderful here,” Arianna said. “The people are so nice and helpful.”

Today, Arianna continues to make a positive impact at Hannaford through her hard work, kindness, and commitment to helping others. She hopes her story encourages others with disabilities to pursue opportunities that match their interests and goals.

“I encourage someone with disabilities to find a job that suits their interests and needs,” she said. “Working at Hannaford is a great example of that.”

Through the partnership between Hannaford and Goodwill Northern New England, Arianna has found more than a job. She has found confidence, community, and a place where she can succeed.

Goodwill Northern New England is a local nonprofit dedicated to investing in people. Goodwill NNE provides comprehensive support to those facing barriers to achieving their work and life goals. Our Workforce Services serve thousands of individuals each year – including our own teammates! Our holistic approach to employment combines the best practices of social work and workforce development. Goodwill NNE stores embody our mission and drive sustainability through re-use, while offering good jobs and free supports to all employees. Goodwill NNE operates in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. For more information visit GoodwillNNE.org.