Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) is one out of the nine members of Congress who received the GII Policymaker Leader Award from Goodwill Industries International (GII). The award honors elected officials who support Goodwill’s public policy agenda. Awardees were announced on Thursday, April 19 at Goodwill’s Advocacy event in Washington, D.C.
Nominated by Goodwill Hawaii, Senator Schatz was selected because of his impactful career in public service in Hawaii. Senator Schatz has long advocated for Hawaii’s disabled veterans and Native Hawaiians – populations that Goodwill Hawaii has actively served in the areas of job training, job counseling and job placement. Senator Schatz currently serves as Chief Deputy Whip and sits on four Senate committees that make decisions on programs critical to the future of Hawaii and many people served by Goodwill Hawaii.
Prior to becoming Senator, Schatz served as CEO of one of Hawaii’s largest nonprofits, Helping Hands Hawaii, to help support lower and middle-income families, and others who have struggled to make ends meet in a State with one of the highest costs of living in the nation. He continues to work with nonprofit organizations, including Goodwill Hawaii, for consideration in upcoming legislature.
“Senator Schatz has shown a true track record of commitment to being an effective public servant. His work before and during his position as State Senator showcase his interest in improving the quality of life for the people of Hawaii and furthering our mission,” said Laura Smith, president and CEO at Goodwill Hawaii.
Since 1959, Goodwill Hawaii has provided job placement, career development, education, training, employment and support services for people throughout the state. Thousands of Hawaii residents each year benefit from our services and have found employment in our community. For more information, visit goodwillhawaii.org.
