Released by Goodwill of the Big Bend ….
Goodwill leaders convene to recognize team members and volunteers in community
[Tallahassee, Fla] – Goodwill Industries of the Big Bend recently recognized team members and announced award recipients at the annual “Power of Work” awards banquet at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. The annual banquet serves as an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s advances over the past year, share the vision for the coming year, recognize retiring board members, and celebrate the achievements of Goodwill employees, volunteers, and clients.
“It is an honor and pleasure to recognize so many helpful partners and Goodwill team members at this year’s annual “Power of Work “awards banquet, said Fred Shelfer, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Big Bend. Last year Goodwill’s work was severely impacted by Hurricane Michael in October but because of our many great partners, donors, shoppers, and employees it was a positive year and we were able to continue to deliver services to those with barriers to employment demonstrating again the “Power of Work”.
The organization honored individuals and team members for outstanding service in the community and presented awards to multiple recipients. This year’s award winners include Graduate of the Year, Andrea Johnson, Achiever of the Year, Craig Starke, Goodwill of the Big Bend Employees of Distinction, John Provenzano and Tom Thornton, Learning Pavilion Award winner Jenn McArtor, and Volunteer of the Year, Dr. Graham Kinloch.
Mike McQueen, City Manager of Panama City Beach, gave the keynote speech and addressed the challenges faced in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael and how Goodwill continues to lead community efforts and help those directly impacted. Fred Shelfer announced the retirement of three board members who have each served nine years, including Brent Chumbler, Dr. Jon Bailey and Kim King.
For more information about Goodwill Industries – Big Bend or the different programs offered, please visit www.goodwillbigbend.org.
About Goodwill Industries of the Big Bend
Goodwill Industries – Big Bend is a 501(c)3 nonprofit providing job training, education and employment to people with disabilities and other barriers to employment, helping them to reach their fullest potential in supporting themselves and their families. Goodwill also provides barrier-free apartment complexes designed to help people with disabilities live independently. The nonprofit has 25 retail stores, 12 attended donation centers, nine career-training centers and 12 residential communities, all in the Big Bend area. Eighty-seven cents of every dollar spent at a Goodwill Industries – Big Bend business directly funds programs and services in the local community.