The energy was electric at Bleckley Station in Anderson on May 7 as a capacity crowd of over 220 community leaders, advocates, and local dignitaries gathered for the Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) Champions of Change Luncheon & Awards Ceremony. The event served as a powerful tribute to the impact of the human spirit and the collaborative partnerships that fuel GIUMSC’s mission of changing lives through the power of work.

Hosted by the charismatic Amy Wood of WSPA-TV, the afternoon featured a high-profile lineup of guest speakers, including Anderson County Administrator, Rusty Burns, and Clemson Women’s Basketball Head Coach, Shawn Poppie, who shared inspiring words on leadership and the importance of a strong support system.

The heart of the ceremony focused on the “Champions” themselves – individuals and organizations whose dedication to personal growth and community empowerment has left an indelible mark on the Upstate and Midlands regions.

The 2026 Champions of Change Award Recipients:

• Kimberly Westmoreland: Lloyd Auten Achiever of the Year Award
• William Godfrey: Bill Hummers Mission Impact Award
• Markus Parker: William Wylie Career and Training Center Success Award
• Adecco USA: Cecil McFarland Employer Partner Award
• SC Department of Corrections: LaCrystal Jackson Community Partner Award
• Michele Brinn: Tony Bell Champion Award

“Today was more than just an awards ceremony; it was proof to what is possible when we invest in one another,” said Pat Michaels, President & CEO of GIUMSC. “The stories of Kim, William, and Markus remind us why we do what we do. When we provide the right resources and a hand up, our neighbors don’t just find jobs – they find their way to sustainable, meaningful careers that change the trajectory of their lives and their families.”

The choice of Anderson as the backdrop for this year’s celebration highlighted the deep-rooted impact GIUMSC has maintained within the “Electric City” and surrounding areas of South Carolina.

“It was a privilege to host the Champions of Change event right here in Anderson,” said Anderson Mayor Terence Roberts. “Goodwill remains an essential thread in the fabric of our community. Their commitment to providing the Upstate and Midlands with vital training and career resources creates a ripple effect of progress, helping our citizens achieve independence and contribute to the overall economic health of South Carolina.”

In 2025, GIUMSC transformed lives across the region by serving more than 14,500 individuals and helping over 6,000 people secure employment. Through workforce training and education initiatives, GIUMSC also generated more than $118 million in economic impact, reinvesting opportunity, growth, and stability to local communities.

“After coming here and becoming affiliated with Goodwill, I found they had a lot of programs other than just putting you back to work,” said William Godfrey, the Bill Hummers Mission Impact Award winner. “They give you tools to go out and find a good job – all you have to do is find the program, they are all free! Why not take advantage of it?”

The event was made possible through the generous support of numerous sponsors dedicated to GIUMSC’s vision and mission. These partnerships ensure that Goodwill can continue to offer comprehensive programs – ranging from job placement, veteran services, and specialized career training, to name a few – at no cost to the participants.

As the luncheon concluded, the overarching message was clear: while the awards recognize individual achievements, the true victory belongs to a community that refuses to leave anyone behind.