Patrick had worked at his family’s business, Hamlar-Curtis Funeral Home, for nearly ten years. In May 2019, Patrick’s father retired and ended his family’s 67-year connection to the business. Just a few months later, his father passed away. The challenges kept coming, when in May 2020, Patrick was in a serious car accident, which made him rethink where he was going. Through all of life’s transitions, Patrick persevered with support from his family and Goodwill.
Virtual Services Help Meet the Growing Need for Training and Employment Services
Goodwill Industries of the Valleys has seen the need for training and employment services increase by nearly 43% from a year ago. Through the end of July, Goodwill has helped more than 44,500 people already this year. Since the launch of Virtual Services in March, more than 12,000 people have benefited from job training and employment services virtually.
Register to Attend the 2020 Awards Ceremony on September 10th
The Awards Ceremony is an annual event to recognize those who have made Goodwill’s service during the past year possible. Originally scheduled for May, due to COVID-19, our event is a little late this year, and we will gather outside near the Growing Goodwill Garden. Please RSVP by September 1st.
Youth in Roanoke Enjoy Science Camp at YouthHQ@Goodwill
Science Camp at YouthHQ@Goodwill, like many other summer activities in the wake of COVID-19, looked a little different this year. There were fewer students in attendance, and the camp was only one week instead of two, but the joy of learning was still evident, thanks to the generous support of Elbit Systems, whose sponsorship allowed the camp to continue for its 5th year.
Goodwill’s Project SEARCH: Carilion Clinic Recognized with National Award
The National Project SEARCH conference was held virtually this year on July 20th. Annual awards recognized outcomes for the 2019-2020 school year. The Project SEARCH: Carilion Clinic program received an award for 80% employment outcome for the graduating class of 2020!
The Goodwill mission is what led Lila Dickerson to become a supporter of Goodwill. Her passion for and commitment to helping individuals gain independence continues to drive her support of Goodwill now and in the future.
In July, I celebrated 17 years with Goodwill Industries of the Valleys. When I came to Roanoke, I had been with Goodwill for 29 years. This organization looked very different in those days. We were providing services to just over 1,200 individuals each year and helping about 200 people find jobs in the community. We had 13 stores and employed about 500 people across a 31-county territory. Today, I’m proud to say, the vision I had 17 years ago is in motion, and I believe our Goodwill will continue to impact the lives of individuals we serve for years to come.
