Goodwill West Celebrates 10th Anniversary and Success Stories with Open House!

L to R: Nicole Krupp, Michelle Ruschman, Julie Combs, Lisa Schneider, Alice Pavey, HCDDS Superintendent and Michael Flannery

Ohio Valley Goodwill’s Westwood Vocational Center was the site of an Open House held on Thursday, October 18th, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the organization being in the Westwood community as well as and most importantly, the personal success of the individuals served through the program. The Goodwill team was pleased to welcome representatives from long-time partner agency, Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS) as well as the proud family members of the nine individuals being showcased during the Open House event.

Opened in 2008, the Westwood program serves  over 100  individuals through its employment and training programs as well as its Center for Advocacy, Recreation and Education (CARE) option in a community-inclusive fashion. The nine individuals featured during the Open House all work in the larger community as well as choosing to participate in the Goodwill West program. The Westwood location also offers the opportunity to work in several Goodwill store locations as part of their service options. The Open House was highlighted by the sharing of the personal stories of many of the individuals who work successfully in the community as well as the debut of the “Wall of Fame” which showcases each person.

Westwood Wall of Fame

“Goodwill is so proud of each of these individuals as well as everyone we work with in supporting their journey to personal success,” said Michelle Ruschman, Westwood Supervisor. The most poignant part of the evening was the first-time presentations offered by the individuals being showcased. Each presentation was followed by enthusiastic applause from the  interested attendees.

“Ohio Valley Goodwill is elated that we had the opportunity to host this Open House event and present our new “Wall of Fame” as well as the chance for people to share their stories of success, ” said Lisa Schneider, Asst. Director of DD Services. To find out more about the Goodwill Westwood program, visit http://www.cincinnatigoodwill.org/services