Goodwill Manasota Recycles 100 Million Pounds: A 2025 Milestone for Planet & People
In an age of fast fashion and disposable goods, the question of what to do with our unwanted items is more pressing than ever. For residents of Sarasota, Bradenton, and surrounding communities, the answer is making a monumental difference. In 2025, Goodwill Manasota achieved a staggering sustainability milestone: diverting 104.4 million pounds of goods from local landfills through reuse and recycling.
This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about a proven, circular solution that pairs environmental stewardship with profound community impact. Every pound represents a item—from clothing and furniture to electronics and books—that found a second life, and a neighbor who found a new opportunity.
The Impact of 100 Million Pounds Recycled and Reused
Reaching over 100 million pounds is a testament to the power of the donate, shop, repeat cycle. Here’s what this 2025 milestone means:
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Environmental Win: Textiles, electronics, plastics, and metals were processed through Goodwill Manasota’s recycling partnerships, conserving natural resources and reducing landfill waste.
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Community Fuel: These donations directly power Goodwill Manasota’s mission of “Changing Lives Through the Power of Work.” The revenue funds job training, placement services, and support for team members.
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Local Economy Boost: Shopping at Goodwill retail stores in Sarasota and Bradenton keeps goods and dollars circulating locally, offering value and unique finds.
How Your Donations Create Jobs & Support Recycling
Many people know Goodwill as a donation center or thrift store, but we are a mission-integrated social enterprise. Here’s the powerful cycle you support:
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You Donate: Dropping off gently used items at a Goodwill Manasota donation center.
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We Process & Sell: Items are sorted and sold in our Sarasota-Bradenton area stores.
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We Recycle: Items that can’t be sold are responsibly channeled to salvage and recycling companies.
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We Train & Hire: Revenue funds programs that serve thousands, including individuals with barriers to employment. In 2025 alone, this model enabled:
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7,527 individuals served
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44,538 hours of training
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1,296 people placed in jobs
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478 veterans served
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Quotes from Goodwill Manasota Leadership
“This 100 million-pound milestone reflects our dual commitment to the planet and our people,” said Donn Githens, President & CEO of Goodwill Manasota. “When you choose to donate or shop at Goodwill, you’re not just making a sustainable choice—you’re funding job training and helping build stronger families right here in our community.”
Githens also champions sustainability at the state level, recently being re-elected as Chair of the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation, which promotes recycling education and policy.
Be Part of the Next Milestone: Reduce, Reuse, ReGoodwill
You can extend this impact. The EPA notes that while 75% of waste is recyclable, only about 32% is. Join us in closing the loop:
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REDUCE Waste: Declutter your home responsibly.
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REUSE First: Shop at Goodwill Manasota stores for affordable, unique items.
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RECYCLE Right: Donate items we can sell or responsibly recycle. Find a donation center near you.
Goodwill Manasota’s 2025 Community Impact Report Highlights
Our latest impact data shows the full picture of your support:
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Over $70,000 in emergency assistance provided.
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250,592 pounds of food collected for local food banks.
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Serving 11 counties across Florida’s coasts.
Ready to declutter for a cause? Your donations fuel our mission. Find your nearest Goodwill Manasota donation drop-off location or retail store today.
