Shonda Russell, MPA has worked at Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana for nearly seven years. During her tenure, she has made contributions to both our mission and education divisions, including as an employment specialist at TalentSource and life coach at The Excel Center. 

February is Black History Month, and Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana is proud and excited to celebrate its Black and African American leaders, mission participants and students. Shannon E.G. Brown is a shining example of a strong, inspiring leader who joined Goodwill Education Initiatives nearly three years ago.

Byron Pillow Jr., 23, was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. As a teenager who struggled with multiple learning disabilities, school wasn't a priority for Pillow, despite having support from his family. 

Born in Mexico, Imelda Lopez lived far away from her local high school, and due to transportation barriers, she never attended. She moved to the United States as a teenager, was married at the age of 16, had her first child at 17, and then four more after that. To help support her family, she always worked. She was employed at a factory for 10 years, but the work became too taxing as she grew older. 

Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana partnered with local organizations across Indianapolis to host two drive-thru turkey giveaway events on the near and far east side of the city this past November. 

1. Find Unique Gifts

James Traylor is familiar with second chances. Since 2011, he has served The Excel Center®. Goodwill’s high school for adults, as a life coach, providing individualized barrier-removal support to students who are pursuing a Core 40 high school diploma.

Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized across the United States from September 15 - October 15 each year. Recently, Indianapolis Met High School, Goodwill’s traditional school for students in grades 9-12, celebrated Latin cultures by hosting an engaging and educational student assembly, as students have enjoyed similar activities in the past.