Through determination, community support and a second chance, Tad Pufall is building a brighter future with Goodwill North Central Wisconsin.

Returning to civilian life after military service can bring challenges that extend far beyond finding a job. For many veterans, the transition means rebuilding routines, reconnecting with their communities and navigating life without the structure and camaraderie of military service. For Tad, that journey has included significant obstacles, but also the opportunity to rediscover his strengths and find a place to belong.

Today, Tad is being recognized as the Goodwill NCW Edgar J. Helms 2026 Veteran of the Year, an honor that celebrates his perseverance, personal growth and the possibilities that emerge when determination meets the right support.

From Military Service to Civilian Life

After graduating from college with a degree in geography, Tad joined the military. His service took him to Germany for several years and included a six-month deployment to Bosnia in 1996.

When his military service ended, Tad faced the challenge of transitioning into the civilian workforce.

“Coming back into the workforce is hard because there’s nobody looking out for you,” Tad explained. Without the structure of military life, he had to learn to manage his own schedule, responsibilities and next steps.

As Alene Helmer, a local veteran employment representative with the Office of Veteran Affairs, notes, veterans returning to civilian life may face challenges with community culture, family relationships and the loss of military camaraderie.

For Tad, these challenges were compounded by health issues and personal hardships. In 2022, he experienced a medical emergency at work and later had many of his personal important belongings stolen. These setbacks created additional barriers as he worked to regain stability.

Finding Support Through Goodwill

Tad’s path forward began when a community partner at the Tomah VA connected him with Goodwill North Central Wisconsin. The goal was to help him gain work experience, develop retail skills and identify a path toward greater independence.

Deb Cota, former Tomah store manager, remembers working with Tad, the VA and Goodwill’s mission team to understand what he hoped to accomplish.

Together, they created an opportunity for Tad to build skills, gain confidence and move toward his goals. During a particularly difficult period, Goodwill helped Tad access training and assistance with rent, providing stability when he needed it most.

“Goodwill changed my life because they helped me get a training program and paid my rent back when I was basically homeless,” Tad shared.

His experience reflects the impact of Goodwill’s mission: meeting people where they are, recognizing their potential and providing the resources and support they need to move forward.

As Kira Sullivan, Manager of Mission Operations at Goodwill NCW, explains, Tad’s journey demonstrates what is possible when a person’s determination and willingness to learn are matched with meaningful opportunities and community partnerships.

Making a Difference in the Community

At Goodwill’s Tomah store, Tad has become a valued member of the team. His supervisor, Richard Pfeifer, says customers appreciate the way Tad takes time to get to know them.

“He treats them like one of the family,” Richard shared.

That personal connection is part of what makes Tad special. He brings more than his work skills to the store; he brings a genuine interest in people and a desire to be part of his community.

Outside of work, Tad enjoys cheering for the Green Bay Packers, exploring history, learning languages, traveling around the community and singing karaoke. His musical tastes span rock, rap and country, reflecting the many interests that make him who he is.

Honoring Service, Celebrating Possibility

Tad’s recognition as the Edgar J. Helms Veteran of the Year honors both his military service and his continued determination to move forward.

His story also highlights the importance of community partnerships in supporting veterans as they navigate civilian life. Through employment opportunities, training, and a supportive team, Goodwill and its partners have helped Tad build a foundation for what comes next.

At Goodwill North Central Wisconsin, we’re proud to recognize Tad’s resilience, celebrate his progress and support the possibilities ahead.