Goodwill Industries, a household name that evokes images of thrift stores, donated goods and workers with disabilities. But there is much more to this non-profit agency than used clothing and furniture. Retail Sales has been the most visible part of our operations, but the programs constitute the heart of our mission in the community- to help men and women obtain training and jobs.

The National Goodwill movement dates back to 1902 when the tremendous influx of immigrants placed a unique burden on the city of Boston. A minister named Edgar Helms gathered clothing and other household items from the community for disadvantaged people to repair and sell for wages.

Toledo Beginnings - NO SMALL POTATOES
In early 1932 all the banks of Toledo closed their doors on a Saturday at noon, some of them never to open again. Confusion reigned in Toledo and the human need was beyond what individual churches could help with. It was in this desperate condition that a minister named J. Arthur Williams brought Edgar Helms ideas from Boston to Toledo.

In 1933 civic-minded business leaders and clergy in Toledo formed a Board of Directors and established our Goodwill Industries in order to help unemployed individuals. The operations began in a donated building on Jackson Street in downtown Toledo.

FOUR BAGS OF POTATOES WERE THE TOTAL CAPITAL STOCK.
The potatoes were bartered for other items that were distributed to the needy. Media coverage was abundant and community donations poured in. Toledo Edison offered free electricity for the building, other area companies donated cars, trucks, and goods. These humble beginnings grew to an increase of locations and services.

Today Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio is affiliated with the United Way and offers a full range of services to unemployed or under employed people. Times have changed, but peoples needs have not. Since 1933 this Goodwill has provided employment and job training for thousands of men and women who have had disabilities and other work-related disadvantages.