Goodwill Industries of Northeastern PA was chartered in December of 1943 and began in an empty factory building. Goodwill’s motto was “turning waste into wages”. Workers would sort through clothes, determining which items could be cleaned and restored, and which could not. The employees then priced the items, and they were sent out to the stores. The workers’ wages came from the sale of the merchandise.

Now, 80 years later, Goodwill Industries of Northeastern PA continues to operate retail services but offers many more program opportunities for individuals with disabilities or other barriers. Skilled staff in progressive programs work to serve those involved in the criminal justice system, underemployed, and those with skills gaps.