ABOUT
GOODWILL
Goodwill Programs and Support
You may be surprised to know that Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland helps people get a job, keep a job, and get a better job. Whether you’re seeking your first job, changing career paths or hoping to move up in your career, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your employment goals. If you live in Calhoun County and would like help getting into the workforce, please reach out at 269-788-6500 ext. 2032 or battlecreekwfd@goodwillcmh.org. Our Employment Specialist can help you create a resume, hone your interview skills, find job training, or assist with your job search.
A good job that pays the bills is a crucial step toward financial stability, but so is having a balanced household budget, affordable childcare, access to public benefits, free tax filing, and so much more. We are looking forward to helping you solve these challenges so that you and your family can thrive! Our Financial Specialist, Family Specialist, and free tax filing program is here to help you move from surviving to thriving!
Across North America, more than 145 Goodwill organizations are making an impact in their communities. Here in Michigan, 10 independent Goodwill’s operate under their own Boards of Directors and Executive Leadership Teams. While we are united by a shared commitment to serving others, each organization carries out this mission in its own distinctive way, guided by unique policies, governance structures, and local priorities.
Your Donations Make a Difference
When you shop and donate, you are powering workforce development programs that serve over 3,000 households annually in 8 counties and parts of 2 others. Thanks to generous donations of goods to our Goodwill retail stores, we provide workforce development services to people with disabilities and other barriers to gainful employment. Through your donations, you are a part of a cycle that changes lives through the power of work.
Our History
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill was founded in 1902 in Boston by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister and early social innovator. Helms collected used household goods and clothing in wealthier areas of the city, then trained and hired those who were poor to mend and repair the used goods. The goods were then resold or given to the people who repaired them.
Dr. Helms’ vision set an early course for what today has become a network of 155 independent Goodwill United organizations in the States and Canada. Helms described Goodwill Industries as an “industrial program as well as a social service enterprise…a provider of employment, training, and rehabilitation for people of limited employability, and a source of temporary assistance for individuals whose resources were depleted.”
For more on Rev. Edgar J. Helms, click here.
GICMH’s History
Doris Klaussen was a special education teaching pioneer. While principal of Ann J. Kellogg, she was instrumental in bringing the Goodwill Industries concept to Battle Creek in 1953 and is considered our organization’s founder. For 44 years she served as a Goodwill volunteer including board secretary, board member, personnel manager, historian, Goodwill Industries Volunteer Service leader, and retail store clerk. Doris’s early vision laid the foundation for Battle Creek’s Goodwill organization, which now spans 8 Michigan counties and parts of 2 others.
You Matter
We welcome and serve individuals from all backgrounds. Our services are open to anyone who has a barrier to employment, and we are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Navigations
Navigations, Incorporated is a mission-driven organization that provides meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities through the Federal AbilityOne program. Our team proudly delivers high-quality grounds maintenance and janitorial services at the Hart-Dole Inouye Federal Center in downtown Battle Creek. The dedication and professionalism of our staff have earned recognition from federal agencies and partner organizations alike, reflecting the exceptional standard of work they consistently achieve.
Our Leadership
Kenneth C. Bauer
President and CEO
William Broeder
Vice President, Finance and CFO
David Chapman
Vice President, Navigations
Shannon Fritz
Vice President, Human Resources and Training
Georgia Gough
Vice President, Workforce Development and Community Partnerships
Mark Peters
Senior Vice President, Retail Sales and Donated Goods
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can be donated?
Are there items not accepted?
Where do you accept donations?
With locations in 8 Michigan counties and serving parts of 2 others, you can conveniently drop off your donation at any of our retail stores or donation centers.
Do you accept monetary donations?
Yes, we do! You can make monetary donations by selecting the “Donate Online Now!” option on our website. You can always round up the cost of your purchase in our stores.
Do you offer items for sale online?
Yes! You can find them at our online store below.
Where can I find Goodwill's locations?
You can find your closest Goodwill store below.