Our Mission
Over 100 Years of Good Work
DIVERSITY is in our DNA
Goodwill Southern California has always been inclusive. Since our inception, we have embraced principles of social justice. At a time when Los Angeles practiced segregation, we made it clear that ALL were welcome to use our public drinking fountain.
Goodwill Southern California was founded in 1916 in Los Angeles. Five years before she had the right to vote, a woman, Katherine Higgins, spearheaded our organization, helping people with barriers to employment find good jobs that promote equity and sustainable communities.
Today, Goodwill SoCal operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our work is funded by cash donations and our social enterprise network, including retail thrift stores, donation centers and business services.
OUR HISTORY
1916
Katherine B. Higgins launches Goodwill Southern California
1918
Goodwill SoCal opens first retail store
1930
Goodwill SoCal takes on the Great Depression
1940
Goodwill SoCal Employs Veterans returning from WWII
1965
Goodwill SoCal records a first. The placement of over 100 workers in private industry within one year
1991
Goodwill SoCal receives the Recycling Achievement Award from the California Department of Conservation
2005
Goodwill SoCal becomes a state certified collector of e-waste
2012
Goodwill SoCal opens Veterans Center in Atwater Village
2020
Goodwill SoCal adapts its services to address COVID crisis
2020
In response to the employment crisis due to COVID-19, Goodwill SoCal launches the Campaign:
OUR PARTNERS
GET INVOLVED
Donate
Your cash donations will help people facing barriers to employment find jobs through Goodwill Southern California’s training and placement programs.
Become a Partner
Join with us to promote economic sustainability for individuals, families and communities in Southern California.
Your business or organization can partner with Goodwill Southern California to promote our mission: Transforming Lives through the Power of Work.