businessSPOTLIGHT: Goodwill Keystone Area
What services or products does your business offer?
In addition to selling donated goods and employing 1400 people across 22 counties, Goodwill Keystone Area (GKA) offers custodial and labor fulfillment services to area businesses. Our commercial cleaning services are convenient and reliable. GKA also has the mobility to provide high volume packaging, assembly and light manufacturing on-site for companies.
Goodwill recognizes the importance of work in an individual’s life. Through our Employment Services, GKA assists individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment in achieving their employment goals. Our training programs equip thousands of workers each year, providing qualified candidates to businesses looking for employees.
How does your business separate itself from your competition?
GKA is a model social enterprise earning 84% of its revenue in the marketplace. We are distinctly “More Than Just a Store” because we reinvest earnings into our programs and services which strengthen the local workforce by preparing people facing challenges and barriers for employment.
How do you see your business growing in the future?
With the abundance of job openings within Central PA in the warehouse/logistics industry, GKA is in the process of developing several training opportunities to prepare individuals with barriers to employment to be ready to step into these high paying positions.
How does your business get involved in the community?
GKA collaborates with local schools, Girl Scout troops, and Boy Scout troops to offer donation drive service projects and educational tours. GKA partners with colleges and universities throughout its territory on local projects like the Be Bold Take Charge Clothing drive for community members re-entering the workforce.
How long has your business been a member of the Chamber?
GKA joined the West Shore Chamber in 2005, and this October will mark 13 years of membership.
How has Chamber membership been beneficial to your business?
Being a Chamber member has elevated the outcomes of our networking efforts. We continue to discover new community events through the Chambers communications. Chamber events like the Business and Industry Expo have enabled Goodwill to engage with many local business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Goodwill Keystone Area is a non-profit administering more than 40 thrift stores & donation centers as well as business services across 22 Central and Southeast Pennsylvania counties to fund programs for people seeking hope and independence. For more information contact Phil Metzler at 717.490.0242 or pmetzler@yourgoodwill.org.