Goodwill Manasota Honors Community Champions at 2026 Community Ambassador Awards
Community leaders, partners, and advocates were recognized Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Goodwill Manasota Community Ambassador Awards, an annual event that highlights individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing opportunity and strengthening lives across the region.
Centered on the mission of Changing Lives Through the Power of Work, the awards celebrated those who have demonstrated measurable impact in areas such as employment, housing, veteran services, and community collaboration.
Among the top honorees, the Florida Department of Corrections was named Community Partner of the Year for its innovative mobile supervision initiative. The program has removed barriers for individuals on probation and parole by bringing services directly into neighborhoods, improving compliance while connecting participants to employment and support resources. Since launching in 2023, the initiative has served more than 1,200 individuals and contributed to reduced re-incarceration rates and stronger workforce participation.
Carlos Moreira, Director of Campus Engagement for Veteran Success and Alumni Affairs at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, was recognized as Veteran Advocate of the Year. Moreira served 15 years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps and continues his service in the Marine Corps Reserves, where he has achieved the rank of Sergeant Major. His military career reflects a deep commitment to leadership and service, which he has carried into his work supporting veterans and military-connected students. Through mentorship, outreach, and advocacy, he has strengthened access to education, career pathways, and community connections for those transitioning from military to civilian life.
Mark Vengroff, CEO and Managing Partner of One Stop Housing, received Community Leader of the Year honors for advancing affordable workforce housing solutions. His leadership has contributed to large-scale housing developments aimed at supporting working families, including partnerships that integrate job training and support services. His efforts reflect a long-term commitment to economic stability and housing equity throughout the region.
Brian Coleman, Assistant Team Leader of White Glove Service at Goodwill Manasota, was named the Robert W. Rosinsky Achiever of the Year. His personal journey reflects resilience and growth, rising from early challenges to become a leader within the organization. Through mentorship, education, and perseverance, Coleman has become a model of the transformative power of opportunity and support.
The event also highlighted the broader impact of Goodwill Manasota’s work in 2025, including placing more than 1,200 individuals in jobs, serving over 7,500 individuals, and dedicating tens of thousands of hours to education and training. These outcomes underscore the organization’s commitment to removing barriers to employment and creating pathways to independence.
As the event concluded, the message remained clear: lasting change happens when communities invest in people. Through partnerships, innovation, and a shared commitment to opportunity, Goodwill Manasota continues to empower individuals and families, reinforcing the belief that meaningful work can transform lives and build stronger communities.
