For more than 25 years, Sonjaki Alvies has been part of the Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana family. Sonjaki is an AbilityOne employee,  where she continues to excel in her career working as a janitor at the Federal Aviation Administration Tower (FAA) at the Indianapolis International Airport.

Goodwill is an implementing agency of AbilityOne, a federal program that provides employment opportunities to those who are blind or have other significant disabilities. AbilityOne not only empowers participants by offering meaningful, stable employment, but also helps foster workplaces where unique talents and abilities are valued. Sonjaki has seen firsthand just how impactful Goodwill and AbilityOne has been for her life, both professionally and personally. 

She is proud of her work at the FAA Tower and playing her part in running a smooth operation. She credits on-the-job training opportunities at Goodwill for preparing her to succeed in this role.

Michaelae Cotton’s journey is one of quiet battles and powerful breakthroughs — a story shaped by mental health challenges, unexpected setbacks, and a fierce determination to rewrite her future.

Each May, Goodwill Education Initiatives celebrates Teacher Appreciation Month by honoring our educators whose dedication to service goes above and beyond, significantly impacting the lives of their students. 

Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May. It’s meant to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, as well as raise awareness and advocate for resources and care options. At Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana, addressing mental health and having tools available are integral pieces of executing the last several years of our strategic plan, “One Goodwill.”

Goodwill Commercial Services Manufacturing Division employee, James Clements, had been impacted by the criminal justice system on and off throughout most of his life. A little over two years ago, however, after thirteen years of incarceration, James was first introduced to Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana. Goodwill leaders began visiting him and other incarcerated individuals to share an exciting work opportunity available to them after incarceration. 

Debora Holmes’s journey with Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana began over 10 years ago, when she joined the organization as a photographer. She had already experienced so much in life, from adopting six of her siblings due to gun violence in the family, to raising two children and taking care of her husband after he fell ill. 

National Nurses Week is a time to recognize the vital contributions of nurses and the essential role they play in building healthy communities. At Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana, we are proud to celebrate the incredible nurses who serve families through our Goodwill Nurse-Family Partnership® (NFP).

Joshua Moore, a dedicated supporter of Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana and a part of our Legacy Club as a member of the 1635 Society, has a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. As a former Goodwill Young Leaders Board member and 2022 Board President, Josh first connected with Goodwill through a former colleague, who introduced him to the organization’s expansive offerings beyond its well-known retail stores. After learning about Goodwill’s diverse and impactful programs—from criminal record expungement to technology skill-building for older adults —Joshua became a passionate advocate for its work.

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the shutdown of public schools, Taylor Martin was only 10 credits away from graduating high school; however, she struggled with the online learning format and was unable to finish. Now 23 years old, life hasn’t been easy.