Patti McFadden looks toward the future with plans to continue her education and take on new challenges.

Patti McFadden is one determined woman. Although cerebral palsy affects her speech and motor functions, she has never stopped reaching for her dreams. She graduated with honors from St. Petersburg College, earning an associate's degree after 17 years of classes.

When Patti came to Goodwill in 1985 after graduating from high school, it was apparent that she had tremendous untapped capabilities. She enjoyed helping other Goodwill clients learn basic math and reading skills at Goodwill’s St. Petersburg location.

Patti began taking classes at St. Petersburg College after a Goodwill case manger challenged her to pursue a college degree. She took one class at a time, balancing her training at Goodwill with the demands of school. She sometimes struggled with the challenging schedule, but never gave up. Patti’s perseverance paid off when she graduated with honors.

Meanwhile Patti became a homeowner, moving to a condo in South Pasadena. She also took on increasing responsibilities at Goodwill as part of the Adult Day Training program. Patti’s latest accomplishment is transitioning out of the Adult Day Training program into a job as a Goodwill office assistant.

Patti's goal is to work in the community, making recommendations to improve accessibility of businesses and public places.

“Graduating from college was big for me, but I’m not done yet,” says Patti. “I have so much to do.”

* Goodwill's Adult Day Training program is funded in part by the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities.