Goodwill of the Great Plains

OUR VISION:

We create a world of dignity and compassion by putting people to work. Goodwill invests in our community by: turning donated goods into work opportunities, forming and expanding job creation centers, through innovative programming and services, and development of leaders.

OUR VALUES:

Compassion, Achievement, Potential, Integrity & Dignity

OUR HISTORY:

Goodwill of the Great Plains, based in Sioux City, IA, started out as Wall Street Mission back in 1890, then, joined the Goodwill movement in 1923. Over the years, our territory has expanded to serve northwest Iowa, northeast Nebraska, southwest Minnesota and all of South Dakota. We have locations stretching from Mason City, IA to Rapid City, SD. We currently operate 21 retail stores and donation centers, an online retail store and operate mission programming through a variety of services, programs and special events throughout our territory.

GOODWILL MOVEMENT:

Goodwill of the Great Plains is part of the international Goodwill movement founded in 1902 by Edgar J. Helms. As Goodwill was developed, Helms collected used household goods and clothing, then trained and hired impoverished individuals to mend and repair the used goods. Selling these goods through Goodwill stores provided the means to fund the mission of the organization to help people overcome barriers to employment. The system worked, and the Goodwill philosophy of “a hand up, not a hand out” was born.

Goodwill’s network of over 160 independent, community-based Goodwills offers customized training and services for individuals who want to find a job. Each local Goodwill must be accredited, apply for membership and meet certain criteria established by Goodwill Industries International 

STUDENTS

Every year we serve youth with career-oriented programs and support.

LEARN MORE

JOB CENTER

Goodwill operates Job Centers across our territory, located inside Goodwill retail stores. Job Centers link job seekers to staff and technology to search and apply for jobs, improve computer skills and access community resources.

LEARN MORE

TRAINING PROGRAMS

Goodwill training programs teach individuals facing limited job opportunities the skills needed for competitive employment. Our programs support individuals with disabilities, veterans, elderly, homeless, immigrants, those exiting the justice system, and many others.

LEARN MORE

PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

At Goodwill we provide a variety of services for adults to help give them the tools necessary to sharpen their skills, meet new challenges, and create more rewarding and independent lives.

LEARN MORE