Spotlight: Frank Aranda
When you walk into the Fairfield ReStore, you might spot a quiet but focused young man helping unload donations, organizing supplies, or helping customers with a friendly smile. That’s Frankie Aranda, a valued member of the ReStore team who joined Solano-Napa Habitat for Humanity in April 2024 through a subsidized workforce development program coordinated by the Solano County Office of Education, the Department of Rehabilitation, and the North Bay Regional Center. At first, Frankie worked just a couple days a week, but his dedication and growing confidence have led him to take on more hours and responsibilities.
Frankie was a little too shy to be interviewed for this story, but his positive impact at the ReStore speaks volumes. Throughout his life, Frankie has faced learning challenges that made school and past jobs difficult for him to navigate. Finding a workplace that offered patience, understanding, and community is what Frankie needed, and what he found at Habitat. “Frankie wanted to work, but he needed the type of environment that was uniquely supportive,” said Tina Bidwell, College and Career Development Specialist at the Solano County Office of Education. “When I connected him with Habitat, it turned out to be the perfect fit. The ReStore team made him feel valued and part of the family right away.”
Bidwell works closely with students and young adults through the Solano County Office of Education’s Workforce Development Program managed by Kesha Lovett, helping them prepare for long-term employment and independence. “When someone like Frankie finds the right placement, you can see the transformation and how it impacts their everyday life,” said Bidwell. “He’s more confident, more communicative, and he takes so much pride in his work. Habitat has given him not only a job but a sense of purpose.”
Frankie’s mom, Justine Petropoulos, said she’s seen a huge change in her son since he started working at Habitat. “This job has been so good for him,” she said. “He’s more outgoing now, more independent, and he loves what he does. He comes home tired but happy, and he tells me all about his day. He gets especially excited when he gets to go out on the truck for donation pick-ups.” Justine said that before Habitat, Frankie had struggled to find his footing in past jobs, but the ReStore team’s kindness and patience have given him a place where he can really thrive. “They’ve been incredible with him,” she added. “They treat him with respect and believe in him, and that means everything to us.”
Frankie is now working up to five days a week at the ReStore, and his long-term goal is to get his driver’s license so he can apply for full-time employment.
“Frankie is a gift to our ReStore—his strong work ethic, positive spirit, and willingness to jump in wherever needed inspire both staff and fellow volunteers,” said Lynn Aldersley, SNHfH ReStore Manager. “He’s an essential part of our team, valued and appreciated by everyone who works with him. Most of all, Frankie brings joy to those around him every day. We are grateful that he chose us!”
Frankie’s story is a reminder of how opportunity, encouragement, and inclusion can unlock potential. With the support of his family, his program mentors, and the ReStore team, Frankie has found a place to shine.
