Donn Githens, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries-Manasota, marked 20 years with the Goodwill movement in June.
“Twenty years gives you perspective. It teaches you that meaningful change is not a destination but an ongoing journey,” Githens said. “The workforce development needs in the communities we serve continue to evolve. I am proud of what we have built together, and even more committed to the work that lies ahead.”
Githens has guided the organization through substantial growth and built a mission-integrated social enterprise that now spans more than 80 locations and 1,600 team members across 11 counties on Florida’s west and east coasts. On average, nearly 90 cents of every dollar generated is reinvested directly into workforce programs and community services that are “Changing Lives Through the Power of Work.”
Githens came to the Goodwill network from the private sector and built early leadership experience at Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers and Goodwill of North Georgia before joining Goodwill Manasota as a director and ultimately rising to President and CEO. In 2024, the organization expanded its reach and established Goodwill Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast, acquiring five east coast counties and bringing its workforce development model to more than 600 additional team members.
Under Githens’ leadership, the organization’s mission, “Changing Lives Through the Power of Work,” is rooted in enhancing the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by providing access to education, skills training, and meaningful employment. Last year, the organization served 7,527 individuals, placed 1,296 people in jobs, and delivered nearly 45,000 hours of education and training, all at no cost to participants. Sixty percent of team members across both territories have self-identified barriers to employment or disabling conditions.
Education as a pathway
Central to its mission is Goodwill’s commitment to education as a pathway, not a privilege. Through Goodwill U and academic partnerships, team members pursue upskilling, credentialing, and leadership development throughout their careers.
The JobsPlus Language program opens doors for team members for whom English is not their first language, providing structured instruction that builds confidence and creates clear pathways to advancement. Every team member has access to a dedicated GoodPartner Coach from day one, supporting individual goal setting, career planning, and personal development. The Supported Jobs Plus program creates meaningful employment for individuals with significant disabilities, and the veterans program has connected veterans and their families with career services and emergency financial assistance since 2013.
Together, these programs reflect Goodwill’s core belief that education and work are not separate pursuits but interconnected pathways to lasting change for individuals, families, and communities alike.
“Donn has made a significant and lasting impact on Goodwill Manasota through his leadership and commitment to developing others,” said Goodwill Manasota VP of Operations Alexa Olivas. “He challenges leaders like myself, to grow beyond their comfort zones while ensuring they feel supported along the way. His ability to connect with individuals at every level of the organization is a true strength; he has built a culture where everyone feels seen and valued.”
Githens lives in Sarasota with his wife, Jenny, and their two sons. He serves as Chair of the Florida Goodwill Association, Board Chair of the Florida Recycling Partnership Foundation, and holds board seats with Turning Points and the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County. He holds an MBA from Ashford University and a BS from Florida State University.
For more about Goodwill, visit experiencegoodwill.org.
Submitted by Sharon Kunkel
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Goodwill CEO Donn Githens celebrates 20-year milestone
Reporting by Special to the Herald-Tribune, Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Special to the Herald-Tribune, Sarasota Herald-Tribune | USA TODAY Network
