Goodwill Manasota Significantly Expands Access to Critical Veterans Services
Veterans Services are now more accessible than ever before in the Suncoast region. Goodwill Manasota is proud to announce the major expansion of its Veterans Services program, now available at all six of its Community Resource Centers across Sarasota, Bradenton, North Port, and Arcadia.
This strategic move eliminates barriers to access, ensuring that veterans, their families, and the families of active-duty service members can receive the comprehensive support they deserve, closer to where they live.
For years, Goodwill Manasota has been a steadfast ally to the veteran community, providing jobs, free career services, vital connections to social services, and powerful networking opportunities. By decentralizing its Veterans Services from a single headquarters, Goodwill empowers more heroes to seamlessly reintegrate into their communities and the workforce.
What Are Goodwill’s Veterans Services?
Goodwill Manasota’s Veterans Services program is designed to address the unique challenges faced by those who have served and their families. The program offers holistic support focused on:
Career & Vocational Services: Job search assistance, resume and cover letter writing, and interview skills training.
Comprehensive Case Management: Personalized support to navigate individual needs and goals.
Barrier Removal: Helping veterans overcome obstacles to employment and stability.
Connections to Resources: Assistance with housing, food, transportation, and emergency financial aid.
Networking Opportunities: Building community with others who share similar experiences.
A Network of Support: Find a Community Resource Center Near You
As of September 1, a dedicated member of the Veterans Services team is available at each of the following locations to provide personalized assistance:
University Community Resource Center: 8490 Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota
(List other five city locations here for full local SEO benefit. e.g., Bradenton CRC, North Port CRC, etc.)
The University Parkway location, which previously housed the centralized veterans program, celebrated a grand re-opening on September 1. It continues to be a hub for “Job Connection” career services and community support.
Continued Commitment to Veteran Networking & Community
The expansion ensures that beloved and crucial networking programs continue to thrive:
Weekly VA Coffee Social: Now held every Tuesday at the University Community Resource Center (8490 Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota).
Lutz Buddy Up Social Club: Monthly programs in Sarasota and Venice will continue with ongoing support and funding from Goodwill Manasota.
Leadership and a Mission That Creates More Leaders
The effectiveness of Goodwill’s mission is exemplified by the recent journey of Todd Hughes, the former manager of the Veterans Services program. His exceptional work led to his hiring as the first-ever president and CEO of the Lutz Live to Tell Foundation, a national organization. Goodwill leaders are thrilled to see his impact grow from a regional to a national scale, all while he continues to support local veterans in his new capacity.
“Ease of access to resources for veterans and their families is critical, and Goodwill Manasota is excited about this expansion,” said Margie Genter, VP of Mission Services at Goodwill Manasota. “Our Veterans Task Force will continue to examine ways to increase access and refine our offerings to assist with reintegration as effectively as possible.”
Access the Support You’ve Earned
If you or a veteran you know could benefit from these expanded Veterans Services, reaching out is easy.
Contact Goodwill Manasota’s Veterans Services Team Today:
Phone: 941-355-2721
