Janet Van Emon and Goodwill staff holding $450,000 check

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A SHINING EXAMPLE OF GENEROSITY

July 24, 2018

Janet Van Emon and Goodwill staff holding a $450,000 cheque

Earlier this month, Goodwill of Orange County received a legacy gift for more than $450,000 from the late Orange County resident, Norman Smith. Janet Van Emon, a close friend to Norman, presented the check to Goodwill during a special luncheon at Goodwill of Orange County’s corporate headquarters in Santa Ana.

Norman Smith is a shining example of the power of giving. Throughout his life, Norman always put his community first and deeply cared about the city of Villa Park. He and Janet shared a passion for history, especially for the beloved city where they lived.

A lady's speech at Goodwill of Orange County and a group of people listening

When Janet reflects and shares stories about Norman, the community hears phrases like “a wonderful man” and “the kind of man who would do anything for anyone.” Goodwill of Orange County will be honoring the legacy of Norman well into the future through its life-changing programs and services his generous gift will support.

Norman’s generous legacy gift of more than $450,000 will make a sustained difference in the lives of thousands of people in the communities he cared so deeply about. His gift will allow Goodwill of Orange County to continue to expand its mission of helping people who are facing barriers to get and keep meaningful jobs. These jobs provide purpose, pride and dignity.

For more than 90 years, Goodwill of Orange County has operated a variety of programs and services that help thousands of individuals, including people living with disabilities and veterans, achieve their personal and professional goals. These programs that positively impact lives would not be possible without the support and generosity of people like Norman.

A lady's speech at Goodwill of Orange County and a group of people listening

The community can be sure that Norman’s donation will make an important impact.

It happens when a mother gets a job, so she can provide for her family. It happens when a person with a disability gains a revived integration into the community or when a child without a voice says “I love you” using a specialized tablet. That’s impact. And that’s the impact Norman’s legacy gift will give to our community.

Goodwill of Orange County is extremely grateful to Norman, and for Janet, for joining hands with us in this important work.

Thank you to the community for continuing to support Goodwill of Orange County and a special thank you to Janet and her friends and family for helping us honor the generous legacy gift graciously given to Goodwill from Norman.

Janet Van Emon and Goodwill staff holding $450,000 cheque

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