Robert “Bob” May
Synopsis
Bob May, a veteran who spent a decade homeless due to depression and substance abuse, turned his life around after being referred to Goodwill Specialty Services in 1995. Now an equipment technician at Offutt Air Force Base, May's work repairing janitorial equipment saves Goodwill thousands of dollars annually, and his job has helped him stay sober for over 11 years, allowing him to enjoy hobbies like fishing and invest in his future.
The Full Story
Bob May, an armed services veteran, spent a decade among the unhoused, working odd jobs, living on riverbanks, and wandering along railroad tracks. A divorce had triggered significant depression. He ceased taking medication for his bipolar disorder and began drinking heavily and abusing drugs. Then, one day in 1995, a local Disabled American Veterans organization discovered May living under a bridge and referred him to Goodwill Specialty Services. He was initially hired as a custodian and, today, works as an equipment technician, restoring and repairing a wide array of janitorial equipment at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska.
“When I repair something, I feel a sense of accomplishment that I was able to help this person,” May said.
Solely responsible for repairing all janitorial equipment, May’s co-workers rely on him to repair items in a timely manner and his work literally saves Goodwill thousands of dollars each year in expenses. May has the ability to repair almost anything – snow blowers, lawnmowers, buffers, and waxers.
“Goodwill has given me the opportunity to be all that I can be,” said May, who attributes the stability of his Goodwill job to helping him remain sober for more than 11 years.
When he’s not busy fixing equipment, May enjoys fishing and hunting. “My paycheck allows me to buy things to better myself,” May said. For example, he purchased a truck that he uses for fishing, and he invests in Goodwill’s retirement program.
