The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) awarded a grant to Goodwill Industries International through an effort called “Operation Achieve.” Goodwill Manasota is one of the sub-grantees for Operation Achieve, receiving $155,000 to serve Black and Hispanic veterans and military spouses.

Goodwill Manasota plans to enroll 60 veterans and/or spouses for upskilling/reskilling training and employment services. Enrollment is denoted by the completion of an individual career and financial plan. Goodwill aims to enroll at least 42 eligible individuals into at least one skills training program, based on their career goals; achieve training completion by at least 21 enrollees; and support employment placements for at least 12 program enrollees by August 31, 2022.

In 2021, Goodwill Manasota served 224 veterans through basic services and another 46 through its American Veterans and Their Families program. Of the veterans served, 23 percent were Black and 6 percent were Hispanic. Goodwill placed 31 veterans in jobs and has provided peer networking opportunities, through Lutz Buddy Up meetings in Bradenton and Venice, for 111 veterans.