Mission Moments
Still Rising: Judd’s Story of Determination
Over 15 years ago, Judd turned to Goodwill for housing and employment support. Today, he is a shining example of what dedication can achieve.
Through Goodwill’s residential and employment programs, Judd secured housing and landed his first position in the E Books department. He later transitioned into retail operations, proving himself in multiple roles across the organization.
Known for his versatility and strong work ethic, Judd has earned Employee of the Month four times and is always ready to support his team. Supervisors regularly praise his positive attitude and dependability. With ongoing support from Goodwill, Judd continues to rise and thrive, exemplifying success—both on the job and in his personal life.
Fighting back: Luke’s story of purpose and a plan
When Luke first came to the Goodwill Career Center through our partnership with Pivot Ministries, he was in recovery and discouraged by his circumstances, but motivated to rebuild his life.
He committed to the process, attending weekly sessions where he built computer skills, developed a strong resume, practiced interviewing, and gained confidence navigating his job search. Despite setbacks, he remained focused on both immediate employment and his long-term goal of returning to karate instruction.
His persistence paid off when he secured a karate instructor position, where he continues to thrive.
Team Member Engagement
Lace Up for the 1 annual Goodwill Halloween Hustle 5K! st
Get ready to dust off your running shoes, grab your favorite costume, and join us for one of the most exciting events of the year!
Mark Your Calendar:
�� Sunday, October 18, 2026
�� Costumes Encouraged
�� Run • �� Walk • �� Volunteer
�� All Abilities Welcome
The Goodwill Halloween Hustle 5K Walk/Run celebrating fitness, inclusion, and our mission power of work.
Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, a family with young children, or someone looking for a fun way to spend a fall morning, the Halloween Hustle is designed for all ages, all abilities, and every pace. Costumes are highly encouraged, and we can't wait to see the creativity our team members bring to the event!
Not a Runner? We Need Volunteers Too!
The Halloween Hustle can't happen without an amazing team of volunteers. We are looking for enthusiastic team members to assist with: Registration and check-in Course support Water stations Cheer stations and participant encouragement
Volunteering is a great way to support the event, connect with fellow team members, and help create an unforgettable experience for participants. Email Patrick Jones at pjones@gwct.org.
Win a FREE Registration!
To kick things off, we're giving away six FREE race registrations exclusively for Goodwill team members and participants! Six lucky winners will receive complimentary entry into the Halloween Hustle. Winners will be selected at random and announced in August.
�� Enter to win now: https://bit.ly/ghhr
Why Participate?
Every registration and volunteer hour helps support Goodwill's mission of providing employment, training, and support services to individuals throughout our communities. By participating, you're helping create opportunities for thousands of people while having a great time with your coworkers, friends, and family. So whether you're running, walking, volunteering, or simply cheering from the sidelines, we hope you'll join us for a spooktacular day of fun, community, and impact.
Let's make the inaugural Goodwill Halloween Hustle 5K a hauntingly good success!
Team Member Corner
Celebrating Milestones. Honoring Impact
We are proud to recognize and celebrate the following team members who have reached significant work anniversary milestones at Goodwill. Their dedication and commitment to our mission make a meaningful difference every day. The following represents milestones in July and August.
20 Years of Service
Celso Mendoza, ABI Cheshire CR Residential Specialist
10 Years of Service
Scott Derby, GCC Shelton Senior Career Center Coach
Melissa Laracuente, DDS ISE Hartford Case Manager
Stephanie Cedeno, Fairfield Material Handler
Chaldea Stewart, Human Resources Administrator
Reyna Isabel Ballesteros, Norwalk Shift Supervisor
5 Years of Service
Anthony Cousens, E-Commerce Manager
Dianne Casey, Glastonbury Retail Associate
Bryan Perez Colindres, Stamford Broad St. Assistant Store Manager
Lazaro Gonzalez, Recruitment & HR Data Specialist
Yalitza Otero, DDS ISE-Bridgeport Vocational Program Coordinator
Jazmin Bridges, Bloomfield Retail Associate
Rhason Jones, Bloomfield Retail Associate
From Cheshire House to Associate Director: Congratulations, Carrie!
Congratulations to Carrie Velez on her promotion to Associate Director of Residential Services! Carrie began her Goodwill career as one of the original Residential Staff members who helped open Cheshire House in 2002. Over the past 24 years, she has become an invaluable leader, supporting Residential Services and DDS programs through her expertise in accounting, auditing, compliance, and operations.
Known for her attention to detail, deep knowledge, and collaborative spirit, Carrie has been a trusted resource to countless team members and a driving force behind the success of our Residential programs.
In her new role, Carrie will oversee the Wellness Program and Manchester Residential Operations in addition to her current responsibilities, further expanding her impact on the people and programs we serve. Please join us in congratulating Carrie on this well-deserved promotion!
Retail Corner
Introducing Good to Go: Goodwill's New Mobile Donation Center Program
We're excited to announce the Fall launch of Good to Go, our new Mobile Donation Center Program! Good to Go is designed to make donating easier than ever by bringing a Goodwill donation trailer directly to an individual household, business, school, community organization, or special event throughout our service area. Think of it as a donation center on wheels.
Organizations can request a trailer, host a donation drive, and invite their employees, members, customers, neighbors, or students to donate gently used items. Once the drive is complete, Goodwill picks up the trailer and turns those donations into opportunities for the people we serve.
Why It Matters
Every donation received through the Good to Go program helps support the programs and services that empower Connecticut residents to achieve greater independence through job training, employment, and support services. The program creates a simple way for community members to support Goodwill's mission while cleaning out closets, garages, basements, and offices.
How It Works
1.An individual or organization requests a Good to Go Mobile Donation Center.
2.Goodwill delivers the trailer to the designated location.
3.The trailer is filled with donations.
4.Goodwill picks up the trailer and processes the donated goods.
How Team Members Can Help
The success of Good to Go depends on all of us. Here's how you can support the program:
Tell your family, friends, schools, churches, and community groups about the opportunity. Share the program on social media. Participate when a trailer appears in your community Help spread the word about the impact donations make.
Together, we're making it easier for our communities to donate, support our mission, and create lasting impact.
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