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Health & Fitness

Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce Names Goodwill Manasota Nonprofit of the Year

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce presented Goodwill Manasota with the Nonprofit Organization of the Year Award at the 2014 Frank G. Berlin Small Business Award ceremony on Friday, June 13, 2014.

An independent panel of judges selected Goodwill Manasota out of three other finalists for the top accolade. Other local finalists included Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and U.S. Masters Swimming.

“This top accolade is truly an honor, especially because it comes from the community in which we serve and live,” said Bob Rosinsky, president and CEO of Goodwill Manasota, who accepted the award along with Board Chair Steven Boone. “Recognition like this is an important and appreciated acknowledgement for our tireless and dedicated team who are committed to our mission of changing lives through the power of our work.”

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The organization’s CEO also noted that its collaborations with other not-for-profit organizations and local businesses multiply the impact of Goodwill’s services in the areas of education, employment, economic development and environmental responsibility.

“Everyone knows the name Goodwill, but most people are surprised to see how many ways Goodwill touches lives on a daily basis. We are a catalyst for social change – utilizing a sustainable-mission and integrated business model to enhance the lives of those in need,” said Rosinsky.

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In its 24th year, The Frank G. Berlin, Sr. Small Business Awards recognizes member businesses and individuals with locally owned and operated business in eight categories. Kerkering, Barberio & Co. sponsored the Nonprofit Organization of the Year Award.

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 2013, we served more than 16,000 people, placed 537 people in jobs and assisted 329 veterans as they reintegrated back into the civilian workforce. Goodwill Manasota’s economic impact back to the community is worth $39.3 million.  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 has provided opportunities through such programs as Donated Goods Employment Services, Job Connection, American Veterans & their Families Initiative, JobsPlus, Supported JobsPlus, GoodwillWorks, White Glove Services, Good Neighbor Program and Ambassadors Program. Goodwill is one of the pioneers of the reduce-reuse-recycle movement and this past year diverted 37 million pounds out of the landfill.  Goodwill Manasota is legally organized under the laws of the United States and the State of Florida. We are 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 EXPERIENCEGOODWILL.ORG.

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