For Immediate Release:
December 11, 2007

Abilities Center Names President

Rockford, IL - The Abilities Center, a non-for-profit organization, announced today that it named Samuel J. Schmitz as President, effective January 7, 2008.

For the past decade, Mr. Schmitz has served as the Executive Director of the Employers' Coalition on Health (ECOH) where he was instrumental in the significant growth of the Coalition. His prior experience includes holding several positions with the City of Rockford as City Administrator, Personnel Director, and Community Development Division Manager. His business development perspective and knowledge of the Rock River Valley will benefit the Abilities Center.

After the unexpected loss of its long-time leader Jon W. Lundin, the Abilities Center Board and Search Committee conducted an extensive nationwide search. Marty Glass, Abilities Center Board Chair said, "We feel very fortunate to have someone with Sam's experience, education and background to lead the Abilities Center. Sam brings a strong set of general management and leadership skills to the organization."

As President, Mr. Schmitz will be responsible to execute the mission of strengthening individuals, families, and the community through education, employment, and enterprise development. According to Brian Peterson, Board Chairman of the Employers' Coalition on Health (ECOH), this is a role Sam will be particularly well suited for, having been instrumental in helping the not-for-profit coalition grow. "In his nearly 10 years as our Executive Director, Sam was an important component in establishing ECOH as the area's most successful model for the improvement of healthcare quality and controlling cost for its member companies," said Mr. Peterson.

The Abilities Center offers numerous training opportunities that help people earn a lving wage. These range from employment at one of the six Goodwill Stores in the region, Contract Services, Datatrex (information technology support) and Metalworks (machining). Thraining opportunities include Techworks (manufacturing) and Multitrex (media design and software).

As a long-term resident of Rockford, Mr. Schmitz holds an advanced degree from Western Illinois University and a bachelor's degree in Social Services and Secondary Education from Northwest Missouri State University.

A press conference is scheduled for 10 a.m., December 11, 2007 at the Abilities Center, 1907 Kishwaukee Street, Rockford, IL.

About Abilities Center
Established in 1936, Abilities Center is a member of Goodwill Industries International, the world's largest employer of individuals with disabilities and special needs. Its mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and the community through education, employment, and enterprise development. For more information, please visit our website at www.abilitiescenter.org

Goodwill Abilities Center
1907 Kishwaukee Street
Rockford, IL 61104
(815)965-3795 Ph
(815)965-7087 Fx