The PPCC Nursing Program won the 2009 Open Door Award from Goodwill Industries of Colorado Springs. Nearly 800 guests joined Goodwill Industries in honoring seven supportive businesses and five inspiring individuals at Goodwill’s April 14 Annual Dinner at The Broadmoor Hotel.

The PPCC honorees included Mary Ann Wermers, dean of Health, Environmental, Natural and Physical Sciences; Mary Nifong, Nursing Program director; and Nursing Faculty Marilyn Russo, Vicki Bond, and Joan Ims. The group was honored for their work with Goodwill At Home and the Career Development Center, to help Goodwill participants with a career ladder. The first class of nine students took three one-credit-hour skill development courses through the program to help them qualify to work as personal care partners.

Goodwill’s mission is to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and economic disadvantages. Businesses recognized have made significant contributions to affect the lives of Goodwill participants, and individuals honored have overcome tremendous barriers to employment. The evening celebrated “Goodwill, Now More Than Ever!” At a time when help is needed most, Goodwill is focused on empowering individuals, strengthening families and positively impacting communities through economic vitality.