Goodwill believes that the best way to learn how to work is through paid work. Thus, Goodwill utilizes an Employment Program designed to hire, train, and promote up local individuals with barriers to employment. This program is part of Goodwill’s ongoing commitment to maximize public benefit while minimizing public cost. Goodwill funds its Employment Program primarily through the resale of the community’s unwanted or unused clothing and household items. Nearly 70% of Goodwill’s workforce has an employment barrier, including people with disabilities, low educational achievement, limited or no English, transitioning out of the correctional system, transitioning off of welfare, and more. Through the employment program, Goodwill helps these individuals develop good work habits and gain experience, including material handling (pallet jacks and forklifts), backroom production, merchandising, cashiering, and customer service in a retail environment.
Goodwill has long been a trusted location for organizations who assist individuals seeking to complete community service or volunteer hours. Goodwill partners with several local organizations that refer individuals in need of completing community service or volunteer commitments. Through these partnerships, we continue to provide meaningful opportunities for individuals to gain valuable experience while supporting our mission. Goodwill gladly accepts partner organizations on a regular basis into our Community Service Program, reinforcing our commitment to community engagement and service.
