Youngstown Goodwill Celebrates Community at Annual Breakfast

Nonprofit highlights partnerships, longtime employee, and workforce initiatives at 3rd annual event.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries hosted its 3rd Annual Mission Breakfast on Thursday, bringing together over 200 community members to celebrate the organization's impact in the Mahoning Valley. The event featured speakers discussing the importance of community partnerships, recognized a 42-year Goodwill employee, and highlighted newer workforce initiatives like the Assembly for Workforce Solutions and WorkOhio.

Why it matters

Goodwill's mission of providing job training and employment opportunities is vital in the Youngstown area, which has faced economic challenges. The annual breakfast showcases how the nonprofit collaborates with local businesses and leaders to strengthen the community and workforce.

The details

During the event, Goodwill CEO Dr. Shelley Murray spoke about the organization's partnerships across the Mahoning Valley, stating "Our mission is only possible because of the partnerships we build across the community. Together, we are creating opportunities that help individuals achieve their goals, while strengthening the workforce and the future of the Mahoning Valley." The breakfast also highlighted 50 years of the Youngstown Radio Reading Service, Goodwill's partnership with the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley, and the story of Andrea Chapman, the assistant manager at Goodwill's Austintown store.

  • The 3rd Annual Mission Breakfast took place on Thursday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Dr. Shelley Murray

CEO of the Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries.

Gary Vandetti

A Goodwill employee who has worked for the organization for 42 years.

Andrea Chapman

The assistant manager at Goodwill's Austintown store.

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What they’re saying

“Gary's story represents the heart of what we do. When we talk about opportunity, dignity and purpose through work, Gary is a perfect example of how our mission can truly change lives.”

— Dr. Shelley Murray, CEO, Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries

“Our mission is only possible because of the partnerships we build across the community. Together, we are creating opportunities that help individuals achieve their goals, while strengthening the workforce and the future of the Mahoning Valley.”

— Dr. Shelley Murray, CEO, Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries

What’s next

Goodwill plans to continue expanding its workforce development initiatives and community partnerships in the Mahoning Valley.

The takeaway

Goodwill's annual breakfast showcases how the nonprofit is working with local businesses and leaders to create jobs, provide training, and strengthen the Youngstown community through collaborative efforts.