Goodwill Business Report

Elizabeth Bowers

Business Communications

03/05/2012

Business Report: Goodwill Industries

Introduction

Goodwill Industries, internationally known for its’ used goods thrift stores, began in Boston, Massachusetts in 1902. A pastor named Edgar J. Helms started the not for profit organization by first, retrieving thrown out clothing and household items, often needing fixed or mended, from upper class neighborhoods. Second, the socialite and his colleagues taught unemployed citizens how to repair the minor damages and make the goods usable again. Then third, the items were redistributed to the needy. These disadvantaged apprentices would go on to being the root of the vision Goodwill has today. (Goodwill Industries) That vision is “Every person has the opportunity to achieve his/her fullest potential and participate in and contribute to all aspects of life.” (Our Mission)

Fast forward to over a century later. As of 2010, there was said to be 2,500 Goodwill stores worldwide. Additionally, Goodwill has its’ own online auction site and also posts listings on EBay. The number of people with personal hardships employed during 2010 was more than 170,000, earning a combined wage of 2.7 billion dollars. Retail sales that year were 2.69 billion. The difference in funds was supplied by monetary donations, government support, and job contract services. (Our Mission)

MISSION STATEMENT & VALUES

“Goodwill Industries International enhances the dignity and quality of life of individuals, families and communities by eliminating barriers to opportunity and helping people in need reach their fullest potential through the power of work.” (Goodwill.org) This mission statement

Goodwill has five core values.

* Respect

We treat all people with dignity and respect.

* Stewardship

We honor our heritage by being socially, financially and environmentally responsible.

* Ethics

We strive to meet the highest ethical standards

* Learning

We challenge...