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Samuel Dupre has been selected to receive this year’s award, which he will receive during the group's annual Achievement Awards Luncheon on Thursday, April 28.
According to event planners, the award recognizes the achievements of those who, with the help of Goodwill programs and services, overcome significant challenges on a path toward a bright future.
According to the group, Dupren has a history of developmental disability and mental illness and was raised in a single-parent household for much of his life, receiving little direction or supervision. He dropped out of school as a senior in high school and, soon after, was arrested for stealing a car.
After serving a prison sentence, Dupre received inpatient treatment at the Bridgeport Mental Health Center, where he lived until starting vocational services at Goodwill in 2012.
Though he dealt with some initial struggles, Dupre found his place on the cleaning crew and is now among the team’s most reliable employees, Goodwill said. He was handpicked to lead the cleaning services effort at Oxford Airport.
“We’re so proud of Sam,” said Vickie Volpano, president and CEO of Goodwill of Western & Northern Connecticut. “We cannot wait to see his continued growth and development during his time at Goodwill.”
Despite winning the award, Dupre is not resting on his laurels. In addition to working full time, he has plans to earn his high school diploma.
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