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Health & Fitness

Goodwill Receives Microsoft Grant for Online Education Program

Microsoft recently awarded Goodwill Manasota an $82,000 grant for new software to transfer its online educational and training program from a single training center into each of its 50 donations centers and retail stores.

This investment to the Goodwill mission will provide employees and Job Connection customers access to GoodwillU®, an online learning center that provides functional skills and job training.

"Partners such as Microsoft allow us to provide the technology tools, training and resources that can help create opportunities and transform communities," said Bob Rosinsky, president and CEO of Goodwill Manasota. "We look forward to a continued partnership with Microsoft as we expand our services to serve more people in our community."

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The grant will directly impact Goodwill Manasota’s ability to increase technology offerings in the community, allowing people to learn new skills, earn gainful employment and increase quality of life.

About Goodwill Manasota

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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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