A Celebration of Excellence

On March 12, 490 people from across North Idaho and eastern Washington gathered at the Spokane Convention Center to celebrate a year of excellence and achievements at Goodwill’s annual Award & Recognition Night.

Goodwill honored 28 individuals and organizations with awards, recognizing their excellence in 2014. “Tonight we celebrate you, your excellence, your successes and your partnerships,” Clark Brekke, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest told attendees. Several individuals and organizations from the communities of Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint and Ponderay were honored at this year’s ceremony.

2014 Mission Partnership Award: Newby-ginnings

For decades, Goodwill has sought out partnerships with other organizations and businesses, working together and sharing resources as we offer a hand up to individuals who are facing barriers in their lives. Newby-ginnings, located in Coeur d’Alene, began partnering with Goodwill’s Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) program in early 2014, providing support to previously homeless veterans who are securing stable housing. Theresa Hart founded Newby-ginnings in memory of her son, U.S. Army Specialist Nick Newby, who was killed in action in Iraq in July 2011.

In 2014, Newby-ginnings helped over 150 veterans in SSVF obtain furniture for their new homes. Many times, when a veteran gets housed with the help of SSVF, they have little more than the clothes on their backs. This is where partners such as Newby-ginnings are such a crucial piece of the success puzzle for these individuals and families. “The furniture and household items she so graciously assists with allow veterans to have their own space that is comfortable and inviting,” said Fawn Schott, general manager of Grant Funded Programs for Goodwill. “This is a huge boost to their independence.”

2014 Employer of the Year: Coeur d’Alene School District

Community employment opportunities are an important part of Goodwill’s mission to help people become independent. Many businesses throughout eastern Washington and North Idaho partner with Goodwill each year, opening job opportunities to men and women who need the chance for a hand up.

In 2014, Coeur d’Alene School District provided opportunities for job seekers enrolled in Goodwill’s Working Solutions program. Working Solutions helps individuals transition from public assistance to self-sufficiency through job search assistance, interview training and other services.

Bryan Martin, maintenance director for Coeur d’Alene School District, was inspired to be part of the solution when he learned about the services Goodwill’s Working Solutions program offers. Bryan and several colleagues partnered with Goodwill and opened new doors to employment. “Customers and employees alike left in awe of their professionalism, knowledge and guidance,” praised Briana Richardson, Working Solutions regional manager in Coeur d’Alene. “The school district has offered to come to Job Club again when need be, work with our customers and keep us up to date on open positions. Together, we were able to better help our people feel more confident and prepared for long-term employment in the district.”

2014 Achiever of the Year: Christi Mosier

The Achiever of the Year Award recognizes the accomplishments of a Goodwill participant who becomes employed by Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest.

Christi Mosier was referred to Goodwill’s Working Solutions program. She arrived excited, ready and willing to get to work. Mosier had been a helper for her family for many years, so she had not worked out of the home. She was anxious to transition to a paying job to support her new family. Her positive attitude and strong work ethic impressed our staff immediately. She frequently spent her time helping other participants and job club members in their efforts. Mosier’s attitude and effort made such an impression on staff that they encouraged her to apply when a position opened in the Working Solutions’ office. “She has become a beacon of light at our office,” praised Michelle Garrett, employment retention specialist for Working Solutions. Garrett added, “We can count on Christi to give a helping hand and go above and beyond to help our customers. The timid, kind girl that came into our program is now a shining star within our organization, and we are so proud of her.”

2014 Award of Excellence: Chris Schilling, Ponderay Goodwill Store Manager

Chris Schilling joined the Goodwill family in 2009, starting first collecting and sorting donations at the Ponderay Goodwill store. Staff describe Schilling as constantly striving to improve his skills. He was constantly looking to learn more and grow. In the last several years, Schillinghas been promoted several times. In early 2013, he was promoted to facility manager. “Chris is one of those individuals who seeks to help other people, to do things well, and make a difference,” said Heather Alexander, director of marketing. Schilling is frequently seen helping at events in other regions for Goodwill. In 2014, Schilling was promoted to a regional manager role, which enables him to share his passion, energy and skills with other facilities as needed. Schilling’s facility leadership team in Ponderay praised him, saying, “Chris provides a great example of a positive and optimistic work attitude, willingness to listen and answer questions, and outstanding customer service.”

Goodwill’s employees and programs are spurred on by the challenge that Goodwill’s founder, Edgar J. Helms, gave shortly before he passed away. Helms said, “Remain unsatisfied until each person in your community has an opportunity to achieve their fullest potential.”

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