As we enter the month of May, Goodwill wants to take a moment to highlight the significance of Mental Health Awareness Month and why it’s important to us.

Our organization is built on the foundation of our people. Each of the individuals we employ, educate and serve brings unique talents, perspectives, and experiences to the table, contributing to our collective success. But we must also recognize that behind the professional facade, we are individuals navigating the complexities of life, including our mental health.

Mental health is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being. Just as we prioritize physical health and safety in the workplace, it's equally essential to foster an environment that supports and promotes mental well-being. This is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic business decision, which is why it’s a key initiative of our organization’s Strategic Plan.

When our people feel supported and valued, they are more engaged, productive, and innovative. Conversely, neglecting mental health can lead to decreased morale, increased absenteeism, and reduced performance. As a forward-thinking organization, we cannot afford to overlook the impact of mental health.

By embracing Mental Health Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a culture of openness, empathy, and support. Last year, Goodwill created a new Mental Health Strategist role to ensure we properly execute on this vision, by raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.

Tava Health, one of the new supports offered at Goodwill, provides each Goodwill employee, plus their spouse and dependents, with 15 free therapy sessions each year with a qualified mental health counselor.

“My experience with Tava has been great. It provides me with a space where I can look to understand my struggles and build strategies with my therapist. I can be myself, flaws and all, and not feel judged,” said Sam Stockman, Marketing Coordinator at Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana.

Goodwill also provides wellness grants that both individuals and sites can apply for. For example, these grants helped fund wellness rooms at Goodwill Commercial Services and eCommerce. These private spaces within the building provide employees with a dedicated place to take time out to tend to their own personal health needs. They can include comfortable seating, low lighting, sound machines and can also be used by new mothers who are breastfeeding their babies. 

“It’s nice to have a space I can escape to if I need some time to myself. I’ve already used the space and found it beneficial,” said Saturn McKenna, a Valuation Associate at eCommerce. 

Individual wellness grants have also supported things like fitness tracking devices and equipment, blood pressure cuffs, and gardening supplies.

In addition to regular solicitations of feedback to hear how we’re doing and what we can improve, Mental Health First Aid training is another benefit that is available for free to Goodwill employees and teaches skills that will help participants identify and respond to signs of mental illness.

Goodwill believes that together, we can foster a workplace where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to prioritize their mental health.

If you’re interested in joining our team, visit our careers page to apply.