Jim Freeze '05 has been named Executive Director/CEO of Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries, to replace longtime executive director Mike McBride. "I am pleased that the board has chosen someone like Jim who has the desire to be in our community and to continue with the tradition of helping people in our community through Goodwill's programs and services," said McBride. After a long and extensive search, Freeze was selected amongst a vast pool of candidates by Goodwill's board of directors. Freeze will work alongside McBride, learning about his role and the organization, ensuring a smooth transition through Goodwill's upcoming CARF accreditation process.
Freeze completed two tours in Iraq. He settled in Raleigh, North Carolina where he worked at a recruiting firm, helping military veterans find jobs. Freeze later went on to help create Carroll's Kitchen, a restaurant that employed women from various shelters in the Raleigh area. "Being a part of that organization, I grew an appreciation for how work and gaining employment can change a person's life," said Freeze. With a desire to come back home, Freeze began looking for opportunities. Freeze was drawn to the mission of Goodwill. "Goodwill appealed to me because it is a nonprofit that provides vocational training and employment opportunities. I had developed a firm appreciation for the value of work, the intangible and tangible skills that are developed through employment, and how it can provide hope and dignity to individuals," said Freeze. Read More