“I Had No Idea” is the statement most often made when the Goodwill of Mississippi story is told. Most people have no idea what this organization really does and how it affects our communities and people in this state. Goodwill of Mississippi is a non-profit organization that assists people with disabilities and other barriers to obtain employment. The organization creates jobs to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by helping people grow their potential through education, skills training and the power of work. Many people have no idea that they are truly changing lives when they donate and shop at the Goodwill of Mississippi select stores. Let’s share the story.
Reverend Edgar James Helms is credited for the beginning of Goodwill in 1915. He was appalled by the poverty that surrounded him due to people not being able to find work, so he went door to door collecting donations in the wealthiest districts of Boston. Helms believed that the donations could be sold for profit if refurbished and that the people who fixed them, could be paid a wage. He hired people in need and those considered unemployable, and Goodwill was born. Goodwill fills a necessary need in our workforce for people that are often over-looked for employment. Today, Goodwill Industries operates as a network of independent, community-based organizations all over the world.
Goodwill of Mississippi began in Jackson in 1957. The non-profit organization is directed by a local board, a local President/CEO and hires local employees. There are presently six Goodwill Select Store locations in the Jackson Metro area and one in Hattiesburg. They operate under the direction of President and CEO David Hollingsworth. Goodwill of Mississippi partners with Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services to provide training and evaluation for people with disabilities and other barriers toward obtaining employment. Goodwill of Mississippi also assists veterans, those that have been incarcerated, people who have gone through rehabilitation and those that have education barriers. Hollingsworth said most people want to work, whatever their limitations, they just need a change. Goodwill of Mississippi offers that chance.
Working to enhance its mission, Goodwill of Mississippi partners with businesses and organizations to work together to offer a hand up to the people who need it most. You are a very important part of the Goodwill Mission –When You Donate – When You Shop – Jobs are Created and Lives are Changed. We invite you to know more about Goodwill of Mississippi and visit the Goodwill locations. Then you will probably also say, “I Had No Idea”.
