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2025
Spirit of Goodwill
Award

The Spirit of Goodwill Award is a prestigious accolade that recognizes an individual who has devoted their time, talent, and effort to advocate for and promote Goodwill's mission of "Changing Lives through Education, Training, and Employment."

This year, we are presenting the award in honor of the late Mitch Chandler.

Be a Friend of Mitch!

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Please keep this letter as a receipt for your gift. Goodwill of Arkansas Foundation is designated by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as tax-exempt as defined in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and, as such, contributions to Goodwill of Arkansas Foundation are tax-deductible. No goods or services were provided in exchange for this contribution. EIN# 71-0521927

2025 Spirit of Goodwill Award
Mitch Chandler

Mitch Chandler was a gifted communicator, devoted mentor, and vibrant personality whose career in television journalism and public service touched countless lives.

A dynamic force in the world of broadcast and strategic communications, Mitch held key roles at KTHV, KARK, and KATV, and played a pivotal role in launching a television newsroom in Jacksonville, Florida. Beyond the newsroom, he brought his storytelling talents to the Arkansas Department of Economic Development, where he helped shape communication strategies. Later, he produced powerful, emotionally resonant videos for the FBI Agents Association—work he held in the highest regard for its purpose and the mission it honored.

Mitch was also a dedicated community leader. He served on the Goodwill Industries of Arkansas Board of Directors for 21 years, holding several leadership positions, including Board Chairman. Under his guidance, The Excel Center opened its doors in Little Rock in 2017, marking a transformative moment in Goodwill’s mission and impact. Over two decades of service stand as a powerful testament to Mitch’s unwavering commitment to helping others, his belief in second chances, and his passion for purpose-driven leadership.

A lifelong traveler and avid student of history, Mitch was as comfortable discussing complex world affairs as he was sharing a laugh with friends. Whether at a Goodwill board meeting, a neighborhood cookout, a sports bar, or an elegant Parisian restaurant, Mitch was always at the center of the conversation—thoughtful, charismatic, and deeply engaged.

Mitch passed away in November 2024, but his legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the stories he told, and the countless people privileged to call him a friend. Goodwill Industries of Arkansas is proud to dedicate this year’s Spirit of Goodwill Award to our dear friend, Mitch Chandler.

To honor Mitch’s memory, we invite you to make a $50 gift and become a “Friend of Mitch Chandler.” Donors will be recognized on the Gala for Good website and in the event program. For more information on The Gala for Good on October 11, 2025, visit https://www.thegalaforgood.org

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