Goodwill leaders from across the country recently visited Washington, D.C. to educate federal lawmakers on the effectiveness of The Excel Center, Goodwill’s one-of-a-kind high school for adults who wish to earn a high school diploma.

The group, which included representatives from 12 Goodwill organizations across nine states and Washington, D.C, started the visit with a powerful panel that focused on the importance of rigorous evaluations to ensure the education that students receive at The Excel Center helps them effectively achieve their goals.

From there, Goodwill leaders met one-on-one with lawmakers to highlight the accomplishments of The Excel Center students and garner support for future Excel Center campuses across the United States. 

JoAnna Lever, vice president of education for Goodwill Industries of Arkansas, met with five elected officials representing Arkansas or their staff members. 

“This is a great opportunity for us to expand our reach and inform elected officials at the federal level about the impact of The Excel Center,” JoAnna said. “This is one way we can gain their support, and I am so humbled to have participated in this visit to help represent Goodwill continue to expand The Excel Center movement.”

Collectively, the team held more than 40 meetings with House Members and Senators to help increase awareness of the benefits The Excel Center brings to the community.

Additionally, Goodwill of Greater Washington hosted all The Excel Center leaders and partners at their brand new Goodwill Excel Center campus, allowing people to see how The Excel Center serves students and families. 

Georgia Harris, assistant superintendent of The Excel Center for Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona stated, “I chose to come to this advocacy event because there is power in unity. Bringing that power to the federal level is going to benefit the entire Excel Center Network.”

Thank you to all who attended and supported the advocacy events in Washington, D.C. The Excel Center is excited to continue changing lives and expanding our impact on thousands of families across the country.