Local Leaders Join to Drive Job Training and Community Impact in Sarasota and Bradenton
SARASOTA/BRADENTON, FL – Goodwill Manasota is proud to introduce its 2025-2026 Board of Directors, a team of dedicated community leaders committed to advancing the organization’s mission of empowering individuals through job training and career services. Chaired by Betsy Benac, a former Manatee County Commissioner and longtime advocate for community development, the board will guide Goodwill’s efforts to support individuals facing barriers to employment, including disabilities, veterans, and seniors.
Joining the board this year is Jon Kaupla, a seasoned leader with extensive experience in workforce development and organizational growth. As President/Executive Director of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Center for Professional & Executive Development, Kaupla brings a wealth of expertise to Goodwill’s mission.
2025-2026 Priorities: Strengthening Communities
The new board will focus on key initiatives to expand Goodwill’s impact:
- Supporting the 64% of Goodwill team members who face employment barriers, including disabilities and other challenges.
- Enhancing job training and career services to help individuals gain the skills needed for sustainable employment.
- Strengthening thrift store operations in the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast, which generated over $43 million in revenue in 2024 to fund mission programs.
Celebrating a Year of Impact
In 2024, Goodwill Manasota made a significant difference in the community:
- Served over 7,000 individuals through job training and career services.
- Placed 1,560 individuals in jobs, including 463 veterans.
- Collected 235,000 pounds of food for local food banks including partners like All Faiths Food Bank and Meals on Wheels of Sarasota.
- Diverted 98 million pounds of waste from landfills.
“Our board members bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to creating opportunities for those in need,” said Donn Githens, President and CEO of Goodwill Manasota. “With their guidance, we’ll continue to strengthen our programs and ensure everyone in our community has access to meaningful employment.”
Welcome, Jon Kaupla
Jon Kaupla’s career spans leadership roles in both corporate and nonprofit sectors, including Chief Human Resources Officer at CoreLogic and Senior Vice President at Robert W. Baird & Company. His work in workforce development and organizational growth aligns perfectly with Goodwill’s mission to empower individuals through the power of work.
Join Us in Creating Opportunities
Goodwill Manasota invites the community to support its mission by donating goods, shopping at thrift stores, or volunteering. Together, we can transform lives and build a stronger community. Learn more about our mission here. Learn how you can support our mission here.
