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Press Releases

January 19, 2006

New Goodwill Store to Open in Allendale

Goodwill Industries of West Michigan (GIWM) announced its plans to open a new Goodwill store and donation center at 5269 Lake Michigan Drive in Allendale. Following final approval by the Allendale Planning Commission on January 16, Goodwill officials signed a built-to-suit lease agreement with developer Brad VanBergen of Winberg Construction of Montague.

“Weather permitting, we hope to break ground in early February for completion and grand opening sometime in June,” said Goodwill Director of Retail James Cherney. “We are very excited about becoming a part of the growing community of Allendale.”

Goodwill Industries of West Michigan currently operates nine retail stores throughout West Michigan, located in: Newaygo, Fremont, Ludington, Whitehall, Muskegon, Norton Shores, Grand Haven, and (2) in Holland. Store revenues are channeled back into Goodwill's employment and training programs.

“Our shoppers and donors are the lifeblood of our organization,” said Goodwill President Richard Carlson. “Without them we would be unable to fund our mission of helping people train for, find, and keep good jobs.”

The size of the store will be 10,080 square feet and will provide jobs for an estimated 10-15 people. Plans feature large windows and skylights. A covered donation “drive-thru” portico on the east side of the building will allow donors to drive up and receive curbside assistance from Goodwill staff. “We understand and appreciate that our donors are busy people. We want to make the experience as convenient and pleasant as possible,” said Cherney.

All stores operate Mon.– Sat.: 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. and Sun.: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
GIWM also participates in Goodwill’s national online auction site: www.shopgoodwill.com.

The mission of Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Inc. is to provide work opportunities and skill development for people with barriers to employment.

Established in 1950, GIWM has been helping people lead more independent lives for over 50 years. Goodwill offers a wide range of programs and services all with the common theme of helping people overcome barriers to employment. Goodwill’s programs and services not only assist persons with disabilities but also helps those experiencing other barriers to employment including: welfare recipients, dislocated workers, displaced homemakers, older persons, ex-offenders, school dropouts, and others. In 2004, GIWM provided employment services to 5,681 people in West Michigan.

Contact:
Liz Witzler, Marketing Director
(231) 722-7871 x223

James Cherney, Director of Retail Operations
(231) 722-7871 x227

Established in 1950, Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Inc. is a nonprofit human service organization that provides skill development and work opportunities for people with barriers to employment. In the year 2001, Goodwill served 4,367 persons.