Annually, the first Friday in October is observed as Manufacturing Day, an opportunity to recognize the vital role manufacturing plays in our economy, communities, and daily lives. At Goodwill Commercial Services, a division of Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana, we are proud to be part of the contract manufacturing industry, producing high-quality goods, delivering reliable services, and creating meaningful careers for individuals who face barriers to employment.

On September 10, The AMP at 16 Tech was filled with energy, hope and purpose as Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana hosted its fourth annual Goodwill: UNBOXED fundraiser. The sold-out event brought together community leaders, partners and supporters who share a belief in building brighter futures for Hoosiers.

Goodwill TalentSource™, Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana’s career coaching and workforce intermediary, has had the great opportunity to partner with The Global Good Fund and Amani Institute to pilot the GoodBiz Entrepreneurial Leadership Development Program. The program is equipping 10 small business owners or entrepreneurs within Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana’s mission and education network with the tools to grow their businesses, become stronger leaders and work towards their business goals.

At Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana, two thirds of our over 6,000 employees have a barrier to employment such as a disability, a lack of high school diploma or criminal background. Another barrier that is common in the workforce but often overlooked is age.

On September 9, The Greater Kokomo Economic Alliance and Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana came together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Goodwill store on the west side of Kokomo (2222 West Sycamore Street (SR 22)). To commemorate the anniversary, a ribbon cutting was held at the front of the building, featuring speakers from both organizations.

Every October, the United States recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This observance stresses the important contributions and accomplishments of workers with disabilities, as well as the importance of providing opportunity and support in the workplace.

Darnell Bates is a dedicated father, a respected manufacturing supervisor and a mentor to many at Goodwill Commercial Services. But the journey to the life he leads today was anything but easy.

At the end of July, Goodwill New Beginnings hosted its seventh annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament. This event is designed to connect law enforcement, the Department of Corrections and the local community through an afternoon of friendly competition, sportsmanship and fun.

Most people recognize Goodwill as a thrift store, but did you know that Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana is also a local not-for-profit? August 17th is National Nonprofit Day and it’s a perfect time to highlight Goodwill’s mission and the impact of that mission in the communities we serve.

At just 14 years old, Brithney Isidore arrived in the United States from Chile with her mother and sister, stepping into a new country, culture and language. When she enrolled at Indianapolis Metropolitan High School, she spoke little English, often relying on Google Translate just to get through class. “It was hard for me to go through classes and just communicate in general,” she shared. But even then, Brithney refused to settle.