Frequently Asked Questions

Is Goodwill a nonprofit?

Yes, Goodwill is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Revenue earned by selling donated goods in our thrift stores funds our charitable mission to change lives and communities through the power of work.

Why does Goodwill operate thrift stores?

Goodwill’s social enterprise is a major difference maker in the world of nonprofits. Revenue generated by collecting donated goods and selling those goods at our retail stores funds our job training and placement programs.As a donor or shopper at Goodwill, you help make a difference by creating life-changing opportunities, jobs and independence for fellow community members. Read our latest success stories, here.

What happens to the revenue from Goodwill stores?

Approximately 90 cents of every dollar earned goes towards our mission which directly benefits the unemployed and underemployed in our community. Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids transforms your donated goods into funds for workforce development programs through retail store and online sales as well as generous monetary donations.

Who holds Goodwill accountable to positively impact our community?

As a registered nonprofit, we are held accountable by a 100% volunteer Board of Directors comprised of business leaders, civic leaders and members of the Greater Grand Rapids community. To maintain our non-profit status, we must consistently meet the standards set forth by the Internal Revenue Service.

We also hold the highest level of accreditation from CARF, an independent nonprofit accreditor of health and human services.

Do you offer home pick-up?

Donation pick-ups are available from a third-party partner ReSupply, a Veteran run organization. Any and all items accepted! All eligible items are donated while remaining items are ethically disposed of. Pickup fee reflects the operating costs and is much smaller than a usual moving company or junk hauler fee. (Fee is not tax deductible) Learn More

​Our stores and Grandville donation center also offer convenient drive up donation areas. Find a location near you.

What can I donate?

We gladly accept donations of gently used clothing, housewares, electronics and more. Click here to view the list of items we can accept.

What can't I donate?

We appreciate you thinking of Goodwill for your donations. However, there are some items we cannot accept. Click here to view the list of items we cannot accept.

When can I donate?

The hours of operation for each location’s donation drive thru are listed on our locations page. Please donate during scheduled hours only. Do not leave items outside Goodwill stores or donation centers after hours. Unattended donations are often damaged, vandalized or stolen.

What is your return policy?

Returns must take place within 7 days of purchase with receipt and tag/barb attached. Store credit will be issued and does not expire.

New goods (yellow ticketed items) return policy is 7 days with tag attached and receipt for cash or credit, matching the original method of purchase.

*All sales are final at our Outlet Center.

Can I purchase a gift card?

Yes! You can purchase a gift card in any of our stores.

Do you offer discounts or coupons?

Both!

Our loyalty program called Good Rewards earns you points as you shop, and the points can be redeemed for money off future purchases. Good Rewards members can also receive exclusive coupons emailed to them. Click here to sign up!

We also send text message coupons several times a month.  Text “Save” to 46348. Text messaging rates may apply. More info here.

Individuals 55 years and older qualify for 10% off.

Employees receive 20% off, with opportunities to earn up to 60% off.

Is the email/social media post titled "Think Before You Donate" true?

No, the email/social media post circulating is a false rumor. Goodwill is a network of worldwide autonomous nonprofit charitable organizations, each governed by a local volunteer board of directors. Goodwill Industries International is an association office that supports those independent Goodwill’s.

Goodwill industries International’s CEO is Steve Preston, not Mark Curran. No one named Mark Curran has ever headed any Goodwill organization anywhere, including Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids. Scott Dillard is the President/CEO of Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids.

For more information, click here.

How can I help Goodwill?

There are many ways the public can support Goodwill and our mission.

Shopping for incredible bargains and treasures at our thrift stores or online shopgoodwill.com/grandrapids

Donating used goods at any of our stores or Grandville attended donation center.

Making a cash contribution at www.goodwillgr.org/donate-online

When you hear or read false Internet rumors please help set the record straight. You can join the Goodwill conversation on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.