Why Shopping at Goodwill Supports Local Workforce Development - Goodwill Industries of Wayne and Holmes Counties

2025 Community Impact: How Every Piece Builds Opportunity in Wayne and Holmes Counties

February 24, 2026

In 2025, Goodwill Industries of Wayne and Holmes Counties delivered measurable impact through job training, workforce development, and environmental sustainability. Powered by community donations and local support, our programs helped individuals gain skills, secure employment, and give new life to millions of pounds of usable goods.

This year’s Impact Puzzle highlights how every program, service, and donation works together to strengthen our community. When each piece connects, real change happens.

Advancing Job Training and Employment Services

Access to employment changes lives. In 2025, our Mission Services team supported 1,855 individuals through employment services, helping participants build practical skills and confidence for the workplace. A total of 189 individuals secured meaningful employment, an increase from the previous year. In addition, 75 local youth graduated high school, strengthening the future workforce in Wayne and Holmes Counties.

Beyond placement, 4,000 training units were delivered to community members and staff. Training included resume writing, workplace readiness, communication skills, and professional development. These programs equip individuals with tools for long-term success and economic stability.

Sustainability Through Donations and Reuse

Environmental stewardship is central to our mission. Through community donations and responsible recycling practices, millions of pounds of usable goods were diverted from local landfills in 2025. By keeping items in circulation, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and support a circular economy that benefits both people and the planet.

Each donated item supports job training and employment programs while extending the life of valuable materials. Sustainability and workforce development go hand in hand.

Industrial Services and Local Partnerships

Our Industrial Services and Recycled Goods programs continue to create opportunity through meaningful work and community partnerships. In 2025, our team produced 8.2 million parts for industrial partners while responsibly recycling electronic waste and repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded. These efforts support skill development, environmental responsibility, and local economic growth.

Community Support Drives Local Impact

Community generosity fuels everything we do. In 2025, more than 82,000 donors contributed gently used goods, and 14,800 items found new homes through our online store. Every donation helps fund workforce programs, skills training, and services that strengthen individuals and families across Wayne and Holmes Counties.

However, maintaining this impact depends on a consistent supply of donated goods. When donation levels drop, funding for job training and employment services is directly affected.

Why Donations Matter More Than Ever

Our stores rely on donated items to fund programs that help people gain skills, find work, and achieve independence. Donating gently used clothing, household items, electronics, and furniture directly supports local workforce development and sustainability initiatives.

Each contribution is a piece of a larger puzzle. Together, these pieces form a complete picture of opportunity, empowerment, and community impact.

Be Part of the 2026 Impact

You can help complete the next piece of the puzzle: Donate gently used items to support job training and employment programs, shop local to fund community services, and share our mission with others in Wayne and Holmes Counties

Every action strengthens our community and expands opportunity for individuals and families. Explore the full 2025 Impact Puzzle and see how your support makes a difference.

To learn more or donate today, visit GoodwillConnect.org.

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