SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
A City on a Hill
Goodwill Industries of the Kanawha Valley ( GIKV ) aims to be a city on a hill for West Virginians in need following a tumultuous year of the coronavirus pandemic . With a multifaceted approach to improving communities across the Mountain State , Goodwill ’ s newest programming provides training and job experience , which allows employees to overcome employment barriers .
According to Jamon Schmidt , executive assistant at GIKV , the future of Goodwill in West Virginia is bright , with plans for expansion and growth .
Earlier this year , the Teays Valley , WV , Goodwill store closed to begin construction on a project that would not only expand the current store but would bring forth what GIKV has called the new Goodwill experience . With a successful renovation of this location , visuals play a large part in the new design , with new exterior and interior signage in addition to TV displays showing first-hand testimonials from current and past participants , alongside Goodwill ’ s mission statement and the programs and services it offers .
“ We knew that by expanding the current Teays Valley location , it would not only provide more jobs to the Putnam County area , but the revenue from this location will continue to support the Goodwill mission , funding new programs and services ,” says Schmidt . believes in the power of work , and by providing more jobs , job opportunities and choices , we allow more individuals to provide for themselves and their families financially ,” he says .
Each store location supports the Goodwill mission through initiatives like paid training , resume and job application assistance and Suited for Success , a program that provides a free interview outfit for each participant to keep . Further opportunities are available through the SNAP to Success program , which allows for a year-long paid training component and enrollment into an education program with a vocational or technical school . Job seekers can also find work through Goodwill ’ s business services department , through which the janitorial and grounds department operate from contracted work .
Contact Information
( 304 ) 346-0811 info @ goodwillkv . com goodwillkv . com
GIKV will continue its season of growth with upcoming grand openings all over the state . The next grand opening will take place in Bluefield , WV , a community Schmidt hopes will benefit from Goodwill ’ s many programs and services .
“ With each opening , we open the door for individuals to acquire employment . Goodwill
“ When the pandemic hit , these individuals were the ones keeping many of our state , federal and local facilities clean and sanitized . They are truly everyday heroes ,” says Schmidt . “ I see Goodwill as a city on a hill , and I hope people realize we strive to be the change that people need in West Virginia .”