2024
Annual Report
A Message From Our President & CEO
Jill Eggebrecht Wallace
“Through workforce development, sustainability efforts, and strong community partnerships, we empowered individuals to build brighter futures.”
As I reflect on 2024 and step into my new role as CEO of Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids, I am filled with gratitude for the people we serve, the partners who support our mission, and the dedicated team that works tirelessly to unlock potential in our community.
Over the past 17 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving Goodwill in several roles, including vice president of marketing, chief marketing officer, and, most recently, expanding my responsibilities to also include vice president of operations. In that time, I’ve witnessed firsthand the life-changing power of access to education, training, and employment.
In 2024, we stayed true to our mission by removing barriers, creating pathways to success, and building brighter futures. The stories in this report reflect the collective impact of our donors, partners, and team.
As I begin this new chapter in 2025, I do so with deep appreciation for where we’ve been and bold optimism for where we’re headed. We will continue to expand training opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and help more individuals reach their full potential.
To our donors, partners, staff, and community—thank you. Together, we are unlocking potential, empowering change, and transforming lives.
With gratitude,
Jill Eggebrecht Wallace
A Message From Our Board Chair
Scott Chaudoir
“It has been a privilege to serve in this role, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead.”
As Chair of the Board of Directors, I’m honored to reflect on a year of meaningful growth and continued impact at Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids.
In 2024, we saw lives changed through workforce development, sustainability initiatives, and strong community partnerships—thanks to the dedication of our team members, donors, and supporters. These accomplishments are a testament to the power of collaboration and belief in our mission.
We also began an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Jill Eggebrecht Wallace as President and CEO. With her deep roots in the organization and unwavering commitment to our mission, Jill is the right leader to guide Goodwill into the future. The Board is proud to support her vision as we look ahead to 2025 and beyond.
As I continue my final year as Board Chair, I want to thank the Goodwill community for your trust and partnership. It has been a privilege to serve in this role, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead.
With appreciation,
Scott Chaudoir
Our Mission:
Changing lives and communities through the power of work!
About Us
Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals through the power of work. As a member of Goodwill Industries International, we transform donated goods into funding for job training and placement services, helping individuals gain the skills and opportunities they need to build brighter futures.
For every dollar spent in our stores, 90 cents goes directly toward our mission goal of providing no/low-cost job training and employment services to those facing barriers to work in Kent County and surrounding communities.
Since our founding in 1966, we have remained committed to integrity, respect, innovation, stewardship, and excellence, ensuring that our impact extends beyond retail into meaningful, life-changing support for those we serve.
Together, we are changing lives and communities through the power of work.
WHO WE ARE
A nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals through job training and employment opportunities.
WHAT WE DO
We sell donated goods to fund no/low-cost job training and placement services for those facing barriers to employment.
WHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED
We help individuals build skills, gain confidence, and achieve self-sufficiency through the power of work.
Values
Integrity – We are honest, transparent, and accountable in our decisions and actions.
Respect – We treat each other with dignity and fairness, value individual differences, and commit to a safe environment.
Innovation – We continuously learn, embracing creativity and change.
Stewardship – We commit to being socially, environmentally, and fiscally responsible with community resources.
Excellence – We continuously improve and deliver high-value results.
Unlocking Opportunity
Through Our Mission
Our 2024
in Numbers
At Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed. Our mission is to provide individuals with the skills, training, and support they need to secure sustainable employment and achieve long-term stability.
Through workforce development programs, career coaching, and employer partnerships, we help people overcome barriers and build brighter futures.
People Served
Certifications/Credentials Earned
$16.69
Average Starting Wage
New Job Starts
Advancements Earned
$19.72
Average Starting Wage with Credential
Who We Served
A closer look at the top characteristics of individuals served through our programs.
- Living in Poverty 60%
- Lacking Credential for Desired Work 54%
- Living with a Disability 38%
- Having a Criminal Background 25%
- Experiencing Substance Use Disorders 21%
Where They Found Work
From training to thriving, these are the top industries where participants found work.
Where They Found Work
From training to thriving, these are the top industries where participants found work.
Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
Goodwill’s Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training program continues to provide individuals with the tools, confidence, and support to succeed.
In 2024, the program underwent a full curriculum redesign to ensure students are prepared not only to pass certification exams but also to thrive in real-world healthcare settings. The early impact has been powerful, with graduates sharing stories of transformation and renewed purpose.
By investing in people and providing a clear path forward, Goodwill is helping individuals unlock their potential and changing lives in the process.
What Our Students Have To Say
Happy to have such wonderful teachers and a career coach who went above and beyond to help and guide through the entire CNA class.
Health Careers Participant
They are so helpful with providing help and resources to me. If I had a question, I quickly got my answer. I love my instructors, classmates, and career coach, along with the other career coaches too. It’s like we are one big family. Thank y’all so much. ❤️
Health Careers Participant
Goodwill is doing a great job of educating students to become the best at their jobs. Goodwill’s program is awesome!
Health Careers Participant
Removing Barriers,
Unlocking Success
Goodwill’s Resource Navigation Services go beyond employment support, helping both job seekers and the public access essential resources for stability and success. Our team connects individuals with vital community services, ensuring they have what they need to move forward.
1,951 Resources Provided
Top Resources Provided
The most requested and impactful supports delivered through our Resource Navigation team included:
Transportation
Mental Health
Financial Literacy
Housing
Education/ Training
Physical Health
Family Concerns
By removing these barriers, we empower individuals to focus on work, education, and long-term success.
Expanding Opportunities for Returning Citizens
In partnership with the Kent County Parole Office, Goodwill’s Offender Success (OS) Reentry Program supports individuals transitioning from Michigan state prisons as they reintegrate into the community. Career coaches work closely with parole officers to reduce recidivism and help participants build personalized employment plans focused on long-term stability and success.
The OS program expanded its reach to include individuals on probation, broadening access to critical reentry support. Participants received one-on-one coaching on employability skills, assistance securing housing and transportation, and referrals to essential community resources.
A key milestone came at the end of 2024 when OS began referring participants to Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training through FCG Truck Driving School. This new partnership has already led to strong outcomes, with participants launching stable careers in the transportation industry.
Building on this momentum, Goodwill will continue to strengthen and expand reentry services to open more doors for individuals ready to take the next step.
Stories of Potential Unlocked
Paul shares how Goodwill’s Achieve Program supported him on his journey through recovery, helping him overcome addiction and discover a career he truly loves. With personalized guidance and encouragement, Paul unlocked his potential and his future.
About Achieve
Achieve provides comprehensive career support for job seekers, including personalized coaching, goal setting, skill-building workshops, and resource connections. The program is designed to help participants not only secure employment but also retain it, building stability and long-term success.
Mauricio shares how Goodwill’s PathFINDERS program opened new doors in both his life and career. Through personalized support, mentorship, and exposure to new opportunities, he was able to explore fresh pathways and take meaningful steps toward his goals.
About PathFINDERS
PathFINDERS supports young adults in building the confidence, skills, and direction needed for long-term success. The program offers mentoring, career exploration, life skills development, and personalized guidance to help participants identify goals and take actionable steps toward their future.
Investing In Our Stores, Strengthening Our Mission
Improved Spaces, Stronger Experiences
In 2024, we completed remodels at our Greenville and Ionia stores, creating more welcoming, functional, and modern spaces for both shoppers and team members. These updates enhance the customer experience and help generate the revenue that funds Goodwill’s job training programs and mission services.
By reinvesting in our stores, we continue to build strong community spaces that fuel opportunity and lasting impact.
Supporting Employee Education
In 2024, our commitment to employee growth and development remained strong through our education benefits program. This initiative provides financial assistance and paid study time, supporting employees as they balance the demands of work and continued education. We recognize the dedication it takes to pursue both personal and professional goals, and we’re proud to offer resources that help make that possible.
80 Employees Utilized Goodwill’s Education Benefits
Where They Work
- Donated Goods Retail 91%
- Workforce Development 6%
- Administration 3%
3,378
Hours of Paid Study Time
$51,784
Spent on Paid Study Time
$145,465
Spent on Tuition
Sharing Our Stories
Through Media
Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids launched three commercials to highlight the power of donations, shopping, and job training. These videos connected the community to our mission by showing how every purchase and contribution supports workforce development and sustainability.
The campaign helped increase awareness, deepen community engagement, and reinforce a powerful message: Goodwill is more than just a store. It is a place where potential is unlocked and lives are transformed.
The Hat – Tells the story of a woman donating her late husband’s hat, showing how one donation can find new purpose and impact someone else’s life.
The Jacket – Highlights how shopping at Goodwill funds job training and community programs.
Creating Opportunities Through Your Donations – Follows the lifecycle of a donation, demonstrating how it fuels job training and employment opportunities.
Unlocking a Greener Future:
Sustainability in Action
We Promote Sustainability in All Aspects
At Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids, sustainability isn’t just about recycling. It’s about unlocking the full potential of every donation. Through reuse, repurposing, and responsible recycling, we create opportunities, reduce waste, and generate funding for job training and community programs.
How We Unlocked Sustainability in 2024
Diverted 20.4 Million Pounds from Landfills
Through donations, reselling, and recycling, we kept millions of pounds of goods in use instead of in landfills.
Giving Items a Second Life
Every donated item supports affordable shopping, waste reduction, and funding for career training programs.
Beyond Retail: Responsible Recycling
Items that can’t be sold are processed and recycled, including electronics, textiles, and household goods, ensuring materials stay in use.
Sustainability that Creates Jobs
From processing donations to resale operations, our green efforts help both people and the planet by providing employment opportunities while reducing waste.
Our 2024
in Numbers
Thank You
Goodwill’s impact in 2024 was made possible by the dedication and generosity of our community. Every donation, purchase, partnership, and effort contributes to changing lives and communities through the power of work.
Employer & Business Partners – Companies that provided jobs and training opportunities.
Shoppers & Donors – Those whose contributions directly support job training and services.
Grant & Funding Partners – Organizations that invested in workforce development and sustainability.
Employees – The dedicated team members who drive Goodwill’s mission forward every day.
Together, we are unlocking potential and creating opportunities for a stronger community.
