Retail Corner
More Than a Donation
A plain donation box went unnoticed until Michael Leithe, District Manager, decided to take a look inside.
Inside, mixed with old photographs, were the ashes of a veteran who died in the late 1990s. He had somehow become separated from his family and had been forgotten over the years. When Mike found him, he knew right away that the veteran needed to go home.
The first search didn’t turn up anything. But Mike kept trying and asked Heather Marquis, Co-CEO, to help. With assistance from the funeral home, some online tools, and social media, they finally found a lead: Amanda, the veteran’s granddaughter in Waterbury.
When they reached out to Amanda, she was overwhelmed. She had been looking for her grandfather’s remains and personal effects for years.
Mike ensured everything was treated with dignity, purchasing a proper case for the flag and personally delivering the remains to Amanda.
What started as a forgotten donation turned into something much more meaningful: a veteran was honored, and a family was brought back together.
At Goodwill, we often talk about the power of work But sometimes, the most important work isn’t about what we create. It’s about what we help bring back home.
50% OFF. 3 Days Only. Let’s Go! Big Numbers. Bigger Impact People Served
As part of our April Employee Appreciation Weekend, all team members are invited to enjoy an exclusive 50% off shopping experience at any Goodwill store, including your own.
From April 24th through April 26th, take advantage of this special opportunity to find great items at an even greater value. It’s our way of saying thank you for the incredible work you do every day to power our mission.
4,262 People Placed into Jobs
204 Team Members
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As of March 2026