Most people know us for our convenient donation centers and affordable thrift stores, but we are so much more. We help people find jobs through education and training programs offered by Goodwill.
Our Mission:
Goodwill of the Great Plains builds independence through employment, training, and community support.
Our Vision:
We envision a community where individuals thrive and reach their fullest potential, while being a leader in environmental sustainability.
Our Values:
Compassion, Achievement, Potential, Integrity and Dignity
Our Organizational Strategy is focused on:
- Mission
- People
- Sustainability
- Operational Excellence
- Revenue
Our History:
Goodwill of the Great Plains, based in Sioux City, IA, started as Wall Street Mission in 1890 and 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 from Mason City, IA, to Rapid City, SD and currently operate 22 retail stores and donation centers, two online stores and an Outlet Center. We also operate mission programming through various 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 (GII). Each Goodwill is an independent organization governed by a voluntary board of directors. Visit the Goodwill Industries International website at goodwill.org.