Turning Points Strengthens Partnership with Goodwill Manasota
Bradenton, FL– As part of its commitment to innovative solutions, Turning Points is strengthening its partnership with Goodwill Manasota. For many years, the two organizations have collaborated to support individuals who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This partnership has evolved over time to maximize efficiency and ensure that current needs are met.
Turning Points recognizes that agility is essential in addressing the ever-changing challenges faced by those at risk of homelessness. The organization’s proactive approach is rooted in the belief that prevention is both compassionate and cost-effective, enabling the stabilization of lives while reducing long-term community costs. With the steadfast support of donors, community partners, and grant-funded programs, Turning Points continues to provide critical, life-changing services that promote financial stability and independence.
For several years, Turning Points accepted donations of clothes and shoes to sort and stock for their Clothes Closet. More recently, Turning Points also received other household items and high-demand items to set aside for Goodwill to sell in its retail stores; in return, Goodwill would give Turning Points some of its most-needed items from donations received at its own ADCs (attended donation centers).
Beginning January 15th, Goodwill Manasota will manage the collection and sorting of clothing donations for the Turning Points Clothes Closet. This vital program provides men’s and women’s clothing and shoes to clients free of charge. The expanded partnership allows Turning Points to focus on delivering critical services while ensuring individuals in need continue to have access to essential resources.
“This collaboration allows both organizations to focus on their strengths,” said Kathleen Cramer, Executive Director of Turning Points. “Goodwill’s expertise in managing donations enhances our ability to deliver impactful services and prevent homelessness.”
“The current operational change is beneficial in many ways: it frees up space for Turning Points and ensures that Turning Points can request and receive only the items its clients need most,” said Goodwill Manasota President and CEO Donn Githens. He continues, “For many years, our partnership with Turning Points has provided the perfect opportunity for us to help change the lives of community members who may have otherwise had nowhere to turn for support and guidance.”
Turning Points is asking the community to support the collaborating organizations in the following ways:
● Donate household items and clothing to Goodwill Manasota, supporting the seamless flow of resources to our Clothes Closet.
● Continue bringing group donations of laundry detergent, personal care products, sneakers, etc. to the Turning Points’ campus.
● Bring your bike donations to the Turning Points’ campus.
● Contact us at 941.747.1509 to coordinate group donation arrangements.
In 2019, in recognition of the good done through their partnership, Goodwill recognized Turning Points as its Community Partner of the Year during its Community Ambassador of the Year Awards Dinner. Most recently, Goodwill contributed more than 2,000 coats to Turning Points’ annual One Warm Coat Giveaway event, which took place on December 7th, 2024.
Photo # 1 – A family at the One Warm Coat Giveaway.
Photo # 2 – Turning Points volunteer Sharon Linnane assisting a client in choosing clothing at the Turning Points Clothes Closet.
About Turning Points
Last year, over 9,000 individuals benefited from programs at Turning Points, including Community Resource Services, which helps individuals and families navigate crises and access essential resources; Rental and Utility Assistance, a vital tool in preventing housing instability; Free Medical and Dental Care, which supports uninsured Manatee County residents in maintaining their health; Day Resource Services, offering hot showers, laundry, clothing, and other essential basic needs; and Veterans’ Services, providing comprehensive housing solutions and wraparound support for those who served our nation. Visit tpmanatee.org to learn more.
About Goodwill Manasota
Goodwill Manasota is an industry-leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that changes lives through the power of work. With philanthropic donations and revenue generated by the sales of donated goods, Goodwill is able to assist people with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and those with other barriers to employment by providing jobs, job skills training, and free career services. For more information or for a listing of locations, visit www.experiencegoodwill.org or call 941-355-2721.