ABOUT
GOODWILL
Goodwill Programs and Support
Changing Lives Through the Power of Work
Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland (GICMH) turns donations into opportunity, employment pathways, and community impact across Central Michigan’s Heartland. Through our retail stores, mission services, Navigations programs, and community partnerships, we help people build dignity, stability, and momentum through work.
The Mission
GICMH improves lives through the power of work by turning donations in to opportunity, employment pathways, and community impact across Central Michigan’s Heartland.
This work connects donations, retail operations, workforce opportunity, and community partnership to help people build dignity, stability, and momentum through work.
How We Help
- Job-search support, resume development and interview preparation
- Employment coaching, job training, and careerpathway guidance
- Financial coaching, household budgeting, and free tax filing assistance
- Family support, resource navigation, and community referrals
- Connections to local employers, partners, and service providers
Why It Matters
Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland (GICMH) turns donations into opportunity, employment pathways, and community impact across Central Michigan’s Heartland. Through our retail stores, mission services, Navigations programs, and community partnerships, we help people build dignity, stability, and momentum through work.
Local Goodwill. Local Impact
GICMH is one of Michigan’s independent local Goodwill organizations, guided by local leadership, local governance, and local priorities. While Goodwills across North America share a common commitment to service, our work is shaped by the needs, strengths, and opportunities of the communities we serve.
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. He collected used household goods and clothing in wealthier areas, then trained and hired people who were poor to repair and resell those items.
That vision helped establish what became a broad Goodwill network across the United States and Canada. Goodwill combined employment, training, and rehabilitation with social service, creating a practical model that linked donated goods to work opportunity.
GICMH's History
Doris Clausen, a special education teaching pioneer and principal of Ann J. Kellogg, helped bring the Goodwill concept to Battle Creek in 1953 and is considered the founder of the local organization.
Over 44 years, she served Goodwill in many roles, helping lay the foundation for what is now Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland, serving 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
Rob Lipski
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
Kenneth C. Bauer
Emeritus
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I donate, and what items are 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.