Every year during the first full week of May, Goodwill organizations across the U.S. and Canada celebrate Goodwill Week, which runs from May 5-11. The observance serves to raise awareness of the Goodwill mission to transform lives through learning and the power of work.

This week, Goodwill of Middle GA & the CSRA encourages the community to "Get to Know Goodwill" beyond our donor doors and cash registers. While you might be most familiar with Goodwill’s thrift stores, you may be surprised to learn what goes on behind the scenes — and why we do it.

Since 1975, Goodwill of Middle GA & the CSRA has helped people learn skills, find jobs, support their families, and experience the transformative power of education and stable employment. Our services are not just about jobs— they are about changing lives. And they are made possible by your contributions and purchases. When your donated item finds a new home with a new purpose, the money we raise from that sale is then invested into job training and placement programs that help others start new lives.

“People come to us for services like career coaching, skills training, and jobs,” says Leah Pontani, Senior Vice President for Career Development. “We also help them access other support services to address other critical needs, such as childcare or transportation.”

In fact, more than 10,200 people used Goodwill services last year. That’s over six percent of the Middle Georgia population who were able to pursue higher-paying jobs and support their families thanks to Goodwill's services, which were made possible by supporters like you.

“When you support your local Goodwill, you are helping people here in your hometown find jobs, advance their careers, and care for their families,” said Jennifer Tyner, Vice President for Development. “We are so grateful to our donors, shoppers, employees, job seekers, students, and diners who help bring these ideals to life every day.”

If you would like to celebrate with us, we invite you to bring your donations, come for a treasure hunt, savor the delicious dishes at Edgar's Bakehouse, Edgar's Grille, Edgar's Above Broad, or make a monetary contribution to help your fellow neighbors on their journey towards a brighter future. You can also help raise awareness for our mission by following us on social media (https://www.facebook.com/GoodwillWorks/) and engaging with our posts.

Your support can help uplift people right in your own community. Join us in making a lasting impact: www.goodwillworks.org