Goodwill Honors, Celebrates Volunteers with Special Event

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YOUNGSTOWN — Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries hosted a heartfelt Volunteer Appreciation Brunch on Sept. 26 at the Daniel L. Rossi Auditorium. The event celebrated the hard work and dedication of volunteers, bringing together members from various groups, including the Board of Directors, Junior Group, Altrusa Group, Vision Screening and Radio Reading Service.

Each volunteer received a Certificate of Appreciation and a Goodwill-branded lunch box as tokens of gratitude for their service. The theme of the event was “puzzles,” symbolizing the essential role each individual plays in the larger mission.

“We know you don’t volunteer for the recognition, and that’s why we put on this event — to honor you for your contributions,” CEO Shelley Murray said during her opening speech. “You are an essential part of the mission. However you came to be a part of our organization, we’re so thankful that you did. All of you bring unique gifts and talents to our organization. Together, you form a team, much like pieces of a puzzle, fitting together to support our mission and help those in need.”

The brunch highlighted the wide range of volunteer efforts that support Goodwill’s programs, from governance and leadership to community outreach and specialized services. Attendees enjoyed a morning of good food, camaraderie, and recognition for their contributions.

This celebration marked a return for the volunteers, as the last in-person event occurred in 2019. Moving forward, the organization plans to continue this tradition annually as a way of expressing their deep appreciation for those who never ask for anything in return.

Dr. Murray Named CEO of Youngstown Goodwill

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YOUNGSTOWN — Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. has named Dr. Shelley Murray as the new Chief Executive Officer, the company announced today.

Former CEO Annie Phillips, announced her resignation on Wednesday. Murray served as Goodwill’s interim CEO since Jan. 1.

“I am deeply honored to continue serving this incredible organization,” Murray said. “Over the past year as Interim, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and talent of our team, the resilience of the individuals we serve, and the support of our community. 

“I would like to express my appreciation to Annie Phillips for her leadership and dedication. Together, we will carry forward Goodwill’s legacy of empowering lives and creating opportunities for those who need it most. I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to furthering our mission in even greater ways.”

Prior to Goodwill, Murray spent more than 20 years in education, most recently at Valley Christian Schools. She served as principal, vice principal and head of schools during her tenure. 

“During her role as interim CEO, Shelley has demonstrated remarkable leadership and a deep commitment to our values,” said Board President Hasheen Wilson in a written statement. “She has increased the visibility of Goodwill in our community and has significantly enhanced the spirit of collaboration within our organization. Under Shelley’s leadership, we’ve also seen increases in revenue and efficiencies, further strengthening our ability to serve those in need.

“We are grateful for Annie’s leadership and the contributions she has made during her tenure. Her dedication has been instrumental in advancing our mission and serving our community.”

https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/youngstown-news/long-time-valley-educator-to-head-up-goodwill/

https://www.mahoningmatters.com/news/local/article292360689.html

Youngstown Radio Reading Members Enjoy Day at Art Museum

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YOUNGSTOWN — Members of Goodwill’s Youngstown Radio Reading Service enjoyed a special exhibit Wednesday at The Butler Institute of American Art. 

The exhibit, titled “Hands On! The Sculpture of Michael Naranjo” allows those who are visually impaired the opportunity to feel the art on display. The sculptures are on display from July 14 through Sept. 22.

“I’m really impressed with the Butler Art Museum and Joy Mistovich in getting artists who are blind so that their work can be displayed for people who are blind,” said Mike Bosela, a visually impaired part-time employee and former director with YRRS. “I’m really intrigued, and it’s exciting to find out. We’re all going to have different opinions, and we’re going to have programs about it for our radio reading service.”

Mistovich, assistant education director with Butler Institute, is a member of Goodwill’s board of directors. 

Naranjo is a Native American who was blinded by war and was left with one hand with which to create art. He has carved out sculptures for decades solely with his left hand. His bronze works include Earth, Fire and Wind, Catherine’s Hands, Migraine, Geronimo and Daydream.

Otho Mae Braziel, another visually impaired employee of YRRS, enjoyed her first trip to the museum since she was a student at Youngstown State University. 

“It was a beautiful experience at that time when I was able to see,” she said. “Because I did see some things, when they explain to me what I’m feeling, it’ll come to a picture for me. I think this is something everyone was looking forward to.”

Along with Bosela and Braziel, other YRRS members on hand were Coordinator Mike Muder and Erik Stovall, as well as Patty Poorman, a volunteer and listener.

Photo (front, from left): Patty Poorman and Mike Muder. (Back, from left): Erik Stovall, Mike Bosela and Otho Mae Braziel.