President and CEO Donn Githens Celebrates 20 Years with Goodwill
Two decades of mission-driven growth, expanded access to workforce services, and a lasting commitment to helping people
BRADENTON, Fla. – This June, Donn Githens marks 20 years with the Goodwill movement. As President and CEO of Goodwill Industries – Manasota, Inc (comprising Goodwill Manasota and Goodwill Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast), Githens has guided the organization through substantial growth, building a mission-integrated social enterprise that now spans more than 80 locations and 1,600 team members across 11 counties on Florida’s west and east coasts. On average, nearly 90 cents of every dollar generated is reinvested directly into workforce programs and community services that are Changing Lives Through the Power of Work.
Githens came to the Goodwill network from the private sector and built early leadership experience at Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers and Goodwill of North Georgia before joining Goodwill Manasota as a Director and ultimately rising to President and CEO. In 2024, the organization expanded its reach through a territory impact collaboration and established Goodwill Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast, acquiring five east coast counties and bringing its workforce development model to more than 600 additional team members.
Under Githens’ leadership, the organization’s mission, “Changing Lives Through the Power of Work,” is rooted in enhancing the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by providing access to education, skills training, and meaningful employment. Last year, the organization served 7,527 individuals, placed 1,296 people in jobs, and delivered nearly 45,000 hours of education and training, all at no cost to participants. Sixty percent of team members across both territories have self-identified barriers to employment or disabling conditions. That is not incidental – it is the mission in action.
Central to that mission is Goodwill’s commitment to education as a pathway, not a privilege. Through GoodwillU and academic partnerships, team members pursue upskilling, credentialing, and leadership development throughout their careers. The JobsPlus Language program opens doors for team members for whom English is not their first language, providing structured instruction that builds confidence and creates clear pathways to advancement. Every team member has access to a dedicated GoodPartner Coach from day one, supporting individual goal setting, career planning, and personal development. The Supported Jobs Plus program creates meaningful employment for individuals with significant disabilities, and the Veterans program has connected veterans and their families with career services and emergency financial assistance since 2013. Together, these programs reflect Goodwill’s core belief that education and work are not separate pursuits but interconnected pathways to lasting change for individuals, families, and communities alike.
“Twenty years gives you perspective. It teaches you that meaningful change is not a destination but an ongoing journey. The workforce development needs in the communities we serve continue to evolve. I am proud of what we have built together, and even more committed to the work that lies ahead.”
– Donn Githens, President and CEO, Goodwill Industries – Manasota, Inc.
Donn has made a significant and lasting impact on Goodwill Manasota through his leadership and commitment to developing others. He challenges leaders like myself, to grow beyond their comfort zones while ensuring they feel supported along the way. His ability to connect with individuals at every level of the organization is a true strength—he has built a culture where everyone feels seen and valued.
– Alexa Olivas- VP of Operations Goodwill Manasota
Githens lives in Sarasota with his wife, Jenny, and their two sons. He serves as Chair of the Florida Goodwill Association, Board Chair of the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation, and holds board seats with Turning Points and the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County. He holds an MBA from Ashford University and a BS from Florida State University.
About Goodwill Manasota and Goodwill Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast
Goodwill Manasota and Goodwill Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast are operated by Goodwill Industries-Manasota, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to Changing Lives Through the Power of Work. Through a mission-integrated social enterprise, the organization transforms community donations into reinvested revenue that funds job training, placement services, and workforce support programs for individuals with barriers to employment. Together, the two territories serve 11 counties across Florida’s west and east coasts and operate more than 80 locations, supported by nearly 1,600 team members. For more information, visit experiencegoodwill.org or call 941-355-2721.
