SARASOTA/BRADENTON, FL – From May 7-13, Goodwill Manasota will observe and celebrate the annual “Goodwill Week,” as Goodwills across the United States and in Canada offer job fairs, host community programs, and hold special events – among other activities – to honor supporters. Goodwill Week is used as a time to thank donors, shoppers and supporters who have made positive contributions that help carry out the organization’s mission of changing lives through the power of work.
As a prelude to Goodwill Week, Goodwill Manasota held its Ambassador Recognition Luncheon, recognizing those who make a commitment to share the mission of Goodwill with the greater community by volunteering at events, speaking on the organization’s behalf, creating new fundraisers, and introducing their friends, family and colleagues to Goodwill.
From May 7-13, Goodwill will offer all community members 10% off the purchase of all merchandise at its stores (retail, clearance, bookstores, etc.); the only exclusion is bus passes. The coupon will be available at experiencegoodwill.org at the “Sales/Coupons” link.
On Saturday, May 6, 1-3 p.m., the community is invited to a special offering, Yoga for Vets. Claudia Baeza of the Pineapple Yoga Studio (517 Pineapple Ave., Sarasota) will teach an optional Gentle Yoga Practice, a Goodwill team member will offer information about the Veterans Services Program, and guests will enjoy food and drink from event sponsors Michael’s On East, Morton’s Catering, and Sift Bakehouse. “Love donation” is $25; veterans are invited at no charge. Registration link is https://goo.gl/tPDil5. Proceeds benefit the Veterans Services Program, which focuses on providing services to accommodate returning veterans who face heightened risks of unemployment, personal problems, and homelessness.
From May 11-15, supporters are invited to enjoy the Goodwill Ambassador Cruise on the Empress of the Seas, traveling from Tampa to the Western Caribbean. In addition to attractions in and around Cozumel, guests can also partake in Good Neighbor Classes at Sea, Goodwill date night and a variety of games and activities. Cost is $319/inside stateroom, $339/oceanview stateroom. For reservations, contact Sue Fitzgerald at AAA Travel: (941) 929-2299, ext. 3252.
On May 13, 8-11 a.m., Goodwill is partnering with PGT on a hiring event – more than 100 positions are available. Takes place at PGT (1070 Technology Dr., North Venice). Interested candidates are encouraged to complete the online application at the PGT website and add their resume to employflorida.com – they can visit a Goodwill Job Connection office if they need help with these steps. Call Stephanie Chen at (941) 480-1600, ext. 21021 for more information.
Goodwill uses the proceeds from the sale of donated goods to fund training and employment programs to help individuals get back to work. In 2016, Goodwill Manasota served more than 28,000 people, placed 755 people in jobs and assisted 240 veterans as they reintegrated back into the civilian workforce. Goodwill Manasota’s economic impact on the community is more than $92 million. Goodwill is one of the pioneers of the reduce-reuse-recycle movement and this past year diverted 40 million pounds from area landfills.
“When community members donate their unwanted items, or buy clothing and furniture, they are directly creating jobs and changing lives through the power of work,” said Goodwill Manasota president and CEO Bob Rosinsky. “We are only able to provide services for individuals with disabilities, veterans, and community members with barriers to employment because of the generosity of our community. During Goodwill Week, we are proud to celebrate our successes while honoring the many generous members of our community for making our work possible.”
For more information on Goodwill Week, visit experiencegoodwill.org or call (941) 355-2721.
About Goodwill Manasota
Goodwill Manasota is an industry-leading, 501(c)(3), not-for-profit organization that changes lives through the power of work. With the sales of donated goods and philanthropic donations, Goodwill is able to assist people with disabilities and other barriers to employment by providing job skills training and employment opportunities. In 2016, Goodwill Manasota served 28,207 people, placed 755 people in jobs and assisted 240 veterans as they reintegrated back into the civilian workforce. Goodwill Manasota’s economic impact back to the community is worth $92.1 million. Goodwill is one of the pioneers of the reduce-reuse-recycle movement and this past year diverted more than 40 million pounds out of the landfill. We accomplish our mission through a network of Good Neighbor Centers in Sarasota, Manatee, Hardee and DeSoto counties and our Mission Development Services (MDS) around North America. Goodwill Manasota is accountable to a local Board of Directors. Goodwill Manasota, in essence, belongs to this community and is not owned by any individual or company. For more information, visit www.experiencegoodwill.org.