Bob Rosinsky is president and CEO of Goodwill Manasota

We are entering a joyous time of year–full of holiday festivities, family and fun. It can be easy to forget that for many in our community, the final weeks of the year do not create such excitement or produce the plentiful blessings we so often take for granted.

For those facing empty cupboards, mounting bills or other special challenges, the holidays are a reminder of the looming threat of financial instability. They worry about how they can support themselves and their families–enjoying special meals, traveling to visit family and opening gifts may simply be unattainable dreams. 

Many of these individuals are just like you and me. They are motivated people with unique interests and talents.  They are mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, friends and relatives–they are our neighbors. Their lives, however, have been impacted by physical or emotional challenges, difficult pasts, mental handicaps, unexpected job loss or outdated skills, issues that have made a steady income and self-sufficiency difficult to achieve. 

Where families struggle, however, Goodwill is there to help. Thanks to the support and generosity of our caring community, Goodwill Manasota is able to bring happiness to these individuals at this very special time and throughout the year:

• Instead of worrying about how she will put food on the table, a local single mother will get the career training she needs to provide for herself and her family, helping to lift them out of poverty. 
• A wounded veteran will get the opportunities he needs to become financially self-reliant.  
• A young man with Down syndrome will feel the pride of being a contributing member of a team.

Through 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. Last year, we served more than 16,000 people, placed 537 people in jobs and assisted 329 veterans as they reintegrated back into the civilian workforce.

We are so grateful to our caring community for understanding that intangible things like independence, self-determination, dignity and hope are worth sharing and celebrating. Together, we are working to bring peace and joy to those that face incredible challenges through programs that provide the opportunities for a better life.

Wishing YOU, our friends and neighbors, all the joys of the holiday season.

Bob Rosinsky is president and CEO of Goodwill Manasota