Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries is expanding its services to make donating more convenient than ever. The organization has partnered with ReSupply, a veteran-owned company, to launch a new paid pickup service that brings professional moving services directly to donors’ doors. For more than 130 years, Goodwill has relied on the generosity of community members to fuel its mission of providing job training, employment, and support services for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Now, with the addition of this pickup option, donating household goods, furniture, and more is easier, faster, and hassle-free. “This service helps us meet a growing need in our community,” Goodwill CEO Shelley Murray said. “We know many people want to give, but large or bulky items can be difficult to move. ReSupply is a partner dedicated to supporting job creation while meeting a need in our community. With this new service, we’re not just making donating easier; we’re creating more opportunities for impact.” The ReSupply partnership provides: Veteran-owned service: Supporting local veterans and creating local jobs. Professional moving assistance: No need to lift or disassemble heavy or awkward items — everything is handled for you. Convenient scheduling: Pickups can be booked online in just minutes. Comprehensive removal: From furniture to smaller items, ReSupply takes nearly everything a donor offers. Local contracting: ReSupply partners with trusted, local moving companies and haulers, which means every pickup not only supports Goodwill but also creates opportunities for local businesses and workers. Mission-driven impact: Proceeds from pickups and donations support programs that empower people to learn, work, and thrive. Fees vary depending on the items and distance, but the convenience and professionalism ensure donors receive value while knowing their contributions still make a difference. The fee is collected by ReSupply to compensate its veteran-based service and professional movers, while the value of donated items continues to support Goodwill’s programs. By adding this service, Goodwill is continuing its long tradition of adapting to community needs. Every item collected helps fund programs that align with Goodwill’s core purpose: elevating good, empowering individuals, and achieving goals. Residents in Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Mercer (Pa.), and Lawrence (Pa.) counties can now schedule their pickups online by visiting goodwillyoungstown.org (look for the pop-up on the bottom right of your screen) or calling 814-904-6605. Whether someone is downsizing, moving, or simply decluttering, this new service ensures that giving back to Goodwill is simple and stress-free. Goodwill Industries Now Offering Pickup Services – WFMJ.com

Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest Retail and Donation Center at 3300 Wilmington Road in New Castle, Pennsylvania. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on June 18 to celebrate the launch of this modern, spacious location, which will serve shoppers and donors in the community. The event marks an exciting expansion of Goodwill’s services in Western Pennsylvania and demonstrates the organization’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for individuals through the power of work. The new store has been a labor of love for the entire Goodwill team, with employees and leadership working diligently over the past several weeks to prepare for the grand opening. The store offers a wide selection of affordable clothing, household goods, books and unique treasures — all donated by members of the community and sorted by a dedicated production crew. Every purchase and donation helps fund job training, employment placement, and other critical services offered by Goodwill. Heather Yeager, Goodwill’s Director of Retail Operations, expressed her excitement about the new location. “We’re thrilled to be opening our doors in this part of New Castle,” she said. “This is more than just a store — it’s a place where people can give back, find meaningful work and discover great deals while supporting a mission that changes lives every day.” Goodwill is also actively hiring for the New Castle location and beyond. Positions are available at all levels — from entry-level associates to upper management — and no prior experience is necessary. The organization is committed to offering inclusive job opportunities that help individuals build skills and grow careers. “If you’re looking for a fresh start, a flexible job, or a chance to lead, we encourage you to apply,” Yeager said. “We provide on-the-job training, and we welcome anyone ready to work hard and be part of something bigger.” Those interested in applying can visit goodwillyoungstown.org/employment or call 330-719-5537 for more information. Throughout June, the New Castle Retail and Donation Center will operate under temporary hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Goodwill anticipates resuming regular store hours in July. The community is invited to stop by, explore the new store and see how their purchases and donations help make a difference. From first-time shoppers to longtime donors, all are welcome to celebrate this new chapter with Goodwill.

Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the hiring of Celina Williams as the organization’s new Director of Human Resources. In this key leadership role, Williams will oversee strategic and day-to-day HR operations, ensuring that all policies and practices support Goodwill’s mission to empower individuals through employment and community-based services. With a master’s degree in Human Resource Management and a diverse background spanning for-profit, nonprofit and government sectors, Williams brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Her career began with a government contractor in New Mexico, where she supported personnel functions, while her husband served in the U.S. Air Force. Since then, she has led HR departments across multiple sectors, consistently driving impact through strategic planning, compliance leadership, employee engagement and organizational development. “As Director of Human Resources at Goodwill, I aim to evolve the HR department from an administrative function to a true strategic partner,” Williams said. “By strengthening recruitment, onboarding, compliance and engagement, we will be better positioned to support both our team and the broader community.” One of her key goals is to restructure the HR department to align more closely with business objectives and operational needs, emphasizing efficiency, trust and collaboration. This strategic shift will enhance internal processes and ensure HR initiatives are rooted in Goodwill’s mission to eliminate employment barriers. Williams, a graduate of Indian Creek High School, believes her greatest impact will come through building a people-first culture: “The single largest investment any organization makes is in its people. A strong HR presence is essential for any other goal to be achieved.” Outside of her professional accomplishments, Williams brings a strong sense of family and community to her role. She is the youngest of five siblings with a growing extended family that includes eight nieces and nephews, thirteen great-nieces and nephews, and one more on the way. Married to her husband Kevin for 23 years, the couple has four children. Goodwill is confident that Williams’ experience, leadership and commitment to mission-driven work will be instrumental in advancing its goals and fostering a supportive, high-performing workplace culture. “We’re excited to welcome Celina Williams to the Goodwill team. Her leadership and experience will strengthen the connection between our people and our mission, while her strategic vision will play a key role in empowering our team, fostering a culture of support and accountability, and advancing our impact both internally and in the communities we serve,” said Dr. Shelley Murray, CEO of Youngstown Goodwill Area Industries.

Sight For All United held its annual Golf Fore Sight outing on Monday, June 2 at The Lake Club, bringing together community members, supporters and advocates for a day on the green — and a meaningful step toward greater accessibility in recreational sports. This year’s outing featured a special new element: Visually impaired individuals were invited to learn how to golf prior to the event teeing off. With guidance from dedicated volunteers and support from Envision Blind Sports, participants experienced the joy and challenge of the game in an accessible and welcoming environment. Representing Goodwill were Otho Mae Braziel, an integral part of the Youngstown Radio Reading Service (YRRS) team, and Patty Poorman, a longtime volunteer and listener with a deep commitment to service and accessibility in the Mahoning Valley. “Sight For All United continues to show what community collaboration can accomplish,” said Mike Muder, manager of YRRS. “Creating opportunities for everyone to participate in activities like golf is something we proudly support.” Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of the sport, learning how to chip, putt and hit with a driver. Instructors worked closely with each individual, offering one-on-one support and adaptive techniques to help them build confidence and develop new skills on the course. The Golf Fore Sight outing not only raises funds to support vision-related services but also highlights the importance of equity and empowerment for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. For more information about Sight For All United or to support their mission, visit sightforallunited.org .

Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracy Weimer as the new Career Services Manager for Mercer and Lawrence Counties. In this role, Weimer will help individuals overcome barriers to employment by addressing basic needs, developing workplace readiness and fostering supportive environments that promote confidence and inclusion. Weimer brings a wealth of experience rooted in service, perseverance and community engagement. A single mother at 24, she began her college journey at Penn State Shenango, earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies, while working at Quaker Steak and Lube. She later earned her master’s degree in Health and Human Services Administration from Youngstown State University. Her professional background includes work in child welfare, behavioral health and more than 13 years in substance use disorder treatment at Rainbow Recovery Center, where she served as a counselor and later Clinical Supervisor. In 2018, Weimer helped launch the ROAR Center (Removing Obstacles to Assist Recovery), Mercer County’s first sober-focused community center. She continues to serve her community as a member of the Mercer County Coalition for Drug Awareness and the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee. “Many people just don’t know what resources exist,” Weimer said. “I want to help them bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be.” Weimer’s familiarity with local services and community organizations allows her to connect individuals to the support they need. Her initial focus will be on people in early recovery and those with criminal records who are looking for a second chance. She is also actively learning about services in Lawrence County to build similar connections and ensure Goodwill’s footprint grows across both counties. The Career Specialist Manager role is modeled after a successful initiative in Ohio, and Goodwill anticipates similar outcomes in Pennsylvania. The position is designed to foster collaboration, open new funding doors and increase visibility of Goodwill’s mission in local communities. “My goal is to find the gaps and serve those not already being reached,” Weimer said. “It’s about helping people feel seen, supported and capable of long-term success.” Outside of her professional life, Tracy enjoys time with her husband of 7½ years, her adult son and two grandchildren, Wyatt and Brinleigh. She and her husband love to travel — whether to the beach or the mountains — and share weekly dinners with friends. She also enjoys cooking as a way to unwind and values time with her church community. “There are opportunities, training programs and employers ready to invest in people,” said Weimer. “Sometimes, they just need someone to show them the path.” For more information on Goodwill’s programs in Mercer and Lawrence Counties, visit goodwillyoungstown.org .

Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. is proud to announce the launch of its first Assembly for Workforce Solutions Steering Committee meeting, an initiative born from the findings of a regional Community Needs Assessment conducted in partnership with the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber. The Steering Committee brings together cross-sector partners committed to working collaboratively to address critical barriers to workforce participation in the Mahoning Valley, including access to reliable transportation, behavioral health services, and affordable childcare. These challenges, identified through extensive community input and data analysis, impact not only individuals seeking employment, but the overall vitality and well-being of our region, too. “It’s rare to gather 20 people in a room and find each one shares motivation and inspiration to truly make our Valley a better place to live, work and play, but that’s exactly what happened at the first steering committee meeting. After sitting down with these community and business leaders, I am even more optimistic that we will successfully find solutions to our local workforce needs,” said Brenda Linert, Director of Community Impact at the chamber. In response to the assessment’s findings, Goodwill also created a new leadership position — Community Solutions Director — which has been filled by Carol Holmes-Chambers and is a role dedicated to facilitating and advancing the strategies generated by the Steering Committee. “Our goal goes beyond improving workforce numbers,” Holmes-Chambers said. “At its center, this work is about building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Yes, we want to increase the workforce participation rate in our Valley, but workforce participation is also part of a larger vision of dignity, security, health, and opportunity.” The Steering Committee will meet regularly to develop strategies, foster partnerships, and advance initiatives that create more accessible and supportive environments for individuals navigating the workforce. Goodwill is proud to partner with the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, which is providing vital support as the subcommittee develops and implements its strategic vision to drive meaningful, community-centered change. Goodwill is also grateful to the Youngstown Foundation, whose funding will also help support the Assembly’s ongoing activities and initiatives. This initiative reflects the belief that when communities work together to remove systemic barriers, the result is not just stronger economies, but healthier, more resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to participate and prosper.

Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, Inc. is excited to announce the relocation of its New Castle store to a new site at 3300 Wilmington Rd., Unit 1B, New Castle, PA 16105 (the old Tuesday Morning). The final day of operation at the current location in the Shenango Towne Center will be Thursday, May 9. To prepare for the move, Goodwill will host a “Moving Sale” from May 2 through May 9, offering customers 75% off all items at the current store (2611 Ellwood Rd., Space 3). During this final week, store hours will be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Goodwill also will continue to accept donations until May 9. In addition, Goodwill will host a Hiring Fair for part-time positions at the new Wilmington Road location from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 6 and May 7. Interested applicants can attend in person or call (330) 719-5537 for more information. “This move represents an exciting new chapter for Goodwill in Western Pennsylvania,” said Heather Yeager, director of retail operations. “Our new location will offer a refreshed shopping experience and allow us to better serve the community. We are grateful for the continued support from our customers and look forward to welcoming new team members and shoppers very soon.” Goodwill remains committed to its mission of helping individuals overcome barriers to employment through the power of work. Proceeds from retail store purchases help fund job training and community-based support services across the region. Goodwill also extends heartfelt thanks to the many donors whose generosity makes this work possible. Every donation helps fuel our mission and directly supports programs that change lives.

YOUNGSTOWN — Aim Transportation Solutions marked an incredible 30 years of partnership with Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries by hosting a special luncheon on April 24 at its Liberty headquarters. The event brought together team members from both organizations to reflect on three decades of collaboration and community impact. During the celebration, Trisha Mossor, Business Development Manager at Aim, presented Goodwill CEO Shelley Murray with a commemorative plaque honoring the enduring partnership. Mossor also is a Goodwill board member. “We are incredibly grateful to Aim for their unwavering support and belief in our mission,” Dr. Murray said. “For 30 years, Aim has been more than just a partner — they’ve been a champion for the people we serve. Their generosity and commitment have helped us expand opportunities and change lives across Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.” The partnership between Aim and Goodwill has included a wide range of support over the years, from transportation logistics to collaborative service initiatives. Both organizations emphasized their shared values of service, community and long-term impact. Tom Fleming, CEO of Aim Transportation Solutions, has deep family ties to Goodwill in the Youngstown area. His uncle, Henry McNicholas, served on the Goodwill Board and is believed to have headed up their first fundraising campaign. Tom himself was involved in the campaign in the late 1970s and served on the Goodwill board for many years, including two years as Chairman. Tom’s brother, Joe, also dedicated years to the Goodwill board, including two years as Chairman. The Fleming family has been a steadfast supporter of Goodwill in Youngstown for nearly 50 years, contributing to its growth and success in the community.

Leadership Mahoning Valley hosted its On Board! Board Training and Governance Academy on April 7 at the United Way Volunteer Resource Center in Boardman, offering a dynamic professional development opportunity for nonprofit leaders, board members and volunteers across the Valley. The training is designed to support both new and seasoned nonprofit board members and organizational leadership, equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead with accountability and purpose. The curriculum included key content from Charitable University, a learning platform developed by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, which emphasizes core topics such as board governance, governmental filings, financial operations, internal controls, record-keeping and fundraising. Participants gained valuable insight into the legal and ethical responsibilities of nonprofit leadership, with a strong emphasis on protecting charitable assets and serving communities effectively. Topics also covered foundational best practices in nonprofit governance and clarified the essential duties and expectations of board service. Representing Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries were (top photo, from left): Shelley Murray, CEO Carol Holmes-Chambers, Community Solutions Director Board Members Kathy Gerberry, Vicki Mincey, Trish Mossor, Anthony Sertick and HaSheen Wilson Joe Paloski, Vice President, Mission Services Murray participated in the CEO Working Better Together Panel, discussing and answering questions about nonprofit board best practices and board relations. The On Board! Academy is a vital investment in the nonprofit sector, helping ensure that leaders are well-prepared to make informed decisions and fulfill their duty to the organizations and communities they serve.

During the week of March 31, Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries had the opportunity to travel to Columbus to join forces with several leading nonprofit organizations in advocating for increased support for workforce development initiatives benefiting individuals with autism. Representing Goodwill were CEO Shelley Murray and Community Solutions Director Carol-Holmes Chambers. Goodwill’s mission is rooted in helping individuals overcome barriers to employment—whether those challenges involve disability, education, poverty, housing, or other life circumstances. While this particular initiative focused on supporting individuals with autism, Goodwill’s commitment to inclusive and accessible workforce development extends across a broad spectrum of needs. During the visit, Goodwill proudly presented alongside key partners including the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley, Dylan’s House, GabbaCamp, Moab House and Potential Development. Each organization brought valuable perspective and dedication to the shared goal of empowering individuals with autism and their families. “Our message was clear: We need a holistic approach that includes education, housing, wraparound services and pathways to meaningful employment,” Murray said. “That’s the heart of what we do at Goodwill — empowering people to reach their full potential and achieve the goals they set for themselves.” The group met with legislators who expressed interest in expanding supports and partnerships for inclusive workforce efforts. Goodwill extends its sincere gratitude to the lawmakers who listened with intention and to the partner organizations who continue to lead the way in creating a more equitable and opportunity-rich future for all. Thank you to representatives Monica Robb-Blasdell, David Thomas, Tex Fischer, Lauren McNally and Senator Al Cutrona.

CAPTION:  In the photo from Goodwill’s second annual Mission Fundraising Breakfast are (from left) CEO Dr. Shelley Murray, Michael Dent, Holly Hahn, John Hahn and Kathy Gerberry, who all served as speakers at the event. Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries successfully hosted its second annual Mission Fundraising Breakfast on Thursday at Woodland Estate, drawing approximately 200 attendees in a morning dedicated to elevating, empowering and achieving success. The event featured three powerful testimonies from individuals whose lives have been shaped by Goodwill’s mission: Michael Dent, celebrating his 30th anniversary with Goodwill, reflected on his journey since joining the organization in 1995 and the impact it has had on his life. John Hahn, who has autism, spoke in person about his Goodwill experience alongside his mother, Holly Hahn, highlighting the organization’s role in his personal and professional growth. Kathy Gerberry, a longtime Junior Group volunteer and board member, shared a heartfelt video tribute about her late sister, Diane Schrum, a former Goodwill employee who passed away in 2022. She also discussed the food pantry named in Diane’s honor and emphasized the importance of appeal and pledge cards in supporting Goodwill’s mission. Additional remarks were delivered by CEO Dr. Shelley Murray and Board Director HaSheen Wilson, reinforcing Goodwill’s ongoing commitment to empowering individuals through job training, employment services, and community programs. “This event is a testament to the impact Goodwill has on individuals and families in our community,” Murray said. “Hearing these inspiring stories reminds us why we do this work — it’s about providing opportunities, fostering independence and creating a future where everyone has the chance to succeed.” Goodwill extends its gratitude to all who attended and supported this meaningful event, ensuring continued opportunities for those in need. Those who wish to support Goodwill’s mission can donate new or gently used items to any of its 10 retail locations. You can also donate here . Every donation helps fund job training, employment programs and community services that make a difference in people’s lives.

More than 60 community vendors came together for the Project AHA! Advancing Health Access Community Resource Fair on Feb. 28 at the Metroplex Event Center to provide vital resources and services to residents. The well-attended event offered attendees access to free haircuts, hygiene kits and health screenings, reinforcing the importance of equitable health access and community support. Earlier in the day, the RISE Community Collaborative hosted the Project AHA! An Equity Awareness Experience Workshop. This interactive simulation allowed participants to step into the shoes of individuals navigating life with low income, providing firsthand insight into the challenges of accessing essential community services. “The goal of Project AHA! is to break down barriers and connect individuals with the resources they need,” said Carol Holmes-Chamber, Goodwill’s Community Solutions Director. “Through the resource fair and the equity awareness workshop, we aimed to foster understanding and provide tangible support to our community.” Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries and its partners remain committed to advancing health access and social equity through initiatives like Project AHA! The event’s success highlights the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change.