Introducing the Managers in Training 2010: Marcus Gorman

Malawi on the Horizon
 
Upon my graduation from Kent State University, located in northeast Ohio, I moved back to my home in Columbus, Ohio.  I recently had earned my bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and was looking forward to the possibilities ahead.  I’m embarrassed to say this because I just spent the last five years in school, however, I was still unsure about what I wanted to do career-wise.  So, I took a job bartending at a country club in town…in the meantime, my plan was to get readjusted to life outside of campus, move out of my parents place, find an interesting, worthwhile career or go back to school and get my master’s degree.  Time passed, and sure enough, three years later I was still stuck at the country club with no master’s degree or career in place…I was, however, able to move out of my parents place.
 
I recently competed in a triathlon in Kona, Hawaii on the Ironman trails for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society.  A friend came down with Lymphoma and with the help/support of a coach; a group of us trained and raised over $60,000 for the cure.  After finishing the race, I was overcome by a wave of gratitude and solidarity.  I began to realize how amazing I felt being involved with an organization that helped others.  So, I began pursuing a career that would allow me to do so.
 
Six months ago I found a job post online from a non-profit company called Planet Aid. This organization focused on developmental projects in undeveloped countries around the world, mostly in Africa, Asia, and South America.  Some examples of these projects are HIV/AIDS prevention, subsistence farming clubs, and teacher training colleges which in turn are funded through the collection of used/unwanted clothes here in the states. 
 
I was hired by Planet Aid into the MIT (Manager in Training) program.  This program lasts 18 months, consisting of 12 months of training and learning the in and outs of running a clothes collection operation at the Central Ohio branch, followed by three months abroad working at a teacher training college in Malawi.  Upon my return, three months will be spent doing outreach presentations about my experience.
 
I still have much to learn, but my experiences in the MIT program with Planet Aid have been positive, challenging, and rewarding.  I feel so fortunate to have found a position, which allows me to help others directly and indirectly on a daily basis.  I continue to look forward to learning more about our operation and preparing for an exciting, life-changing adventure in Africa. 
 
Marcus Gorman
Manager in Training
Planet Aid Central Ohio