“I’m from North Philly so sometimes I feel kind of like an outsider around these parts of town, but I feel comfortable being myself at work around all these guys, my coworkers,” Cameron Bonner says.
By Joshua Masenge ‘26
Behind the counter at the Goodwill in Avondale reveals a community of employees that see their jobs as an opportunity to connect with each other. Most of the employees are young high school and college students, so they naturally get along with each other.
“I really appreciate all the valuable friendships I’ve made while working here. I get excited to go to work every day, and it’s kind of an odd feeling since your job is typically something you don’t view as a source of happiness,” said Matthew ‘Matty’ Diamonds.
Finding ways to have fun while surrounded by donated clothes and miscellaneous items is nearly impossible, but these guys find a way.
Carla Diaz says she initially only saw income as the only benefit of a job, but her views changed as she got closer to her coworkers. Now she sees it as an opportunity to make meaningful connections with others.
“I’m always going to cherish the memories I’ve made here. Every day’s like a new adventure and I’m pretty spontaneous, so I love it,” Matty said.
Robert Pavese, the manager in charge of production and customer service, says the close bonds between the employees is what makes this community unique.
