Goodwill announces 2026 Community Ambassador Awards honorees
At Goodwill Manasota, we believe that transforming lives and strengthening our community takes vision, partnership, and unwavering dedication. That’s why each year, we proudly host the Community Ambassador Awards—a signature event that shines a spotlight on the individuals and organizations whose extraordinary efforts align with our mission to change lives through the power of work.
We are thrilled to announce the distinguished honorees for our 2026 Community Ambassador Awards Luncheon. These local heroes exemplify excellence in community leadership, veteran advocacy, innovative partnership, and personal achievement.
Join us as we introduce the four remarkable award recipients who are making a sustainable impact across Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Pictured Left to Right: Carlos Moreira (Veteran Advocate of the Year), Mark Vengroff (Community Leader of the Year),
Stephanie DiTroia from the Florida Department of Corrections (Community Partner of the Year), Brian Coleman (Robert W. Rosinsky Achiever of the Year)
The 2026 Community Ambassador Award Honorees
Community Leader of the Year: Mark Vengroff
A Visionary for Affordable Housing
Mark Vengroff is a force for change in the face of our region’s housing crisis. As CEO and Managing Partner of One Stop Housing, he doesn’t just talk about solutions—he builds them. His leadership brought together a coalition of 12 major employers through the Forest Cove project, a pioneering workforce housing development in Manatee County.
Goodwill Manasota is proud to be part of this coalition. Not only will Forest Cove provide affordable units for our team members, but plans are also underway to establish an on-site Community Resource Center. This center will offer residents wrap-around services like job training and life skills coaching, creating a holistic model for stability and success.
Veteran Advocate of the Year: Carlos Moreira
Bridging Military Service to Civilian Success
Sergeant Major Carlos Moreira, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve (Ret.), has dedicated his life to service. After a decorated 15-year active-duty career, he transitioned to leading veteran-support initiatives in higher education. As the Director of Campus Engagement for Veteran Success at USF Sarasota-Manatee, he ensures military-connected students have the resources and community they need to thrive.
His advocacy extends far beyond campus. Carlos chairs the USF chapter of SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society and is a driving force in community veteran networks, including Goodwill’s quarterly Veteran Task Force. His work fosters healing, connection, and empowerment for veterans at every stage of their civilian journey.
Community Partner of the Year: Florida Department of Corrections
Innovating Re-Entry and Reducing Recidivism
This award recognizes an organization that thought outside the box to create life-changing access. Led by Stephanie DiTroia, the FDOC’s Mobile Probation Unit initiative partnered with Goodwill to bring monthly supervision check-ins directly to our community locations.
By removing transportation and logistical barriers, this partnership has yielded incredible results since 2023:
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Over 1,200 individuals served
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Higher compliance with supervision requirements
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Fewer technical violation re-incarcerations
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A direct pathway to employment through referrals to Goodwill’s free Job Connection program
This collaboration is a national model for how addressing social determinants like employment can create safer, stronger communities.
The Robert W. Rosinsky Achiever of the Year (“The Rosy”): Brian Coleman
Embracing Growth and Exemplifying Excellence
The “Rosy” award, made possible by the Louis & Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust, honors a Goodwill team member who demonstrates profound personal and professional growth. This year, it goes to Brian Coleman, a 14-year veteran of our White Glove Service team.
Moving to Florida as a new parent, Brian was determined to build a better future. At Goodwill, he is known for his exceptional work ethic, responsibility, and superb people skills. While excelling in his role, he also returned to school, graduating with an impressive 3.9 GPA. Brian truly embodies the spirit of continuous improvement at the heart of our mission.
Join Us in Celebration
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
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Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
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Location: Michael’s On East | 1212 East Avenue S., Sarasota, FL
“This signature event is a wonderful time for us to gather to celebrate local leaders and advocates for their dedication, partnership, and devoted service to our community,” said Donn Githens, President & CEO of Goodwill Manasota.
Support the Mission:
Individual tickets are $150. Sponsorship opportunities ($500 – $7,500) are still available and offer visibility while supporting Goodwill’s life-changing programs. Learn more and secure your spot today:
👉 experiencegoodwill.org/community-ambassador-of-the-year-awards
