Helping people prepare for, find, and keep good jobs is what Goodwill is about.
people were provided workforce development and support services in 2023
people placed into competitive jobs in the community
average hourly wage ($) of people placed into jobs through Goodwill
For Kathy, Goodwill isn’t just a workplace — it’s her second home. Through her employment at Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Kathy has achieved the dream of homeownership.
Retail Associate
Years of service: 22
JOIN US in celebrating Kathy Krajkiewicz as our Employee Spotlight Feature. As retail associate and donation door attendant, Kathy embodies dedication and infuses joy into her work every day. Employed at Goodwill for 22 years, Kathy expresses, “Goodwill is the only place I’ve ever liked working.”
For Kathy, Goodwill isn’t just a workplace — it’s her second home. Through her employment at Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Kathy has achieved the dream of homeownership, remarking, “Not everyone is able to get a place of their own.” She eagerly anticipates retirement in two years so she can spend time with her beloved dog, Gibson, and cherished cat, Jackie. Kathy’s infectious laughter and smile illuminate every room she enters, and she advocates, “Be kind to other people. You just have to. There’s a lot of sadness out there.”
Kathy draws inspiration from her friends: Linda Kruse, Gloria Bailey, and her current supervisor, Ludington Store Manager Carmen Stehouwer. Linda, initially Kathy’s teacher when she relocated from the Mt. Pleasant Regional Center for Developmental Disabilities, not only taught her to read and write but also became a lifelong friend. Gloria, Kathy’s first supervisor at Goodwill, has provided continuous mentorship and support over the years. Kathy expresses profound gratitude for Carmen’s leadership, stating, “I wouldn’t trade Carmen for the world. She is very important to me. Carmen and Gloria are both two of the nicest bosses I’ve ever had.”
Kathy competed three years in a row in the Special Olympics National Games in New Orleans and in Minnesota, participating in various sports including track and field, swimming, basketball, poly hockey, bowling and tennis.
Kathy’s guilty pleasure? Sweet pickles and onions, which she insists, “taste so good on a lunchmeat sandwich!”
In closing, Kathy shares her wisdom: “Find a job and get something you like – like I have at Goodwill.”
Thank you, Kathy, for your unwavering dedication and inspiring presence!
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Success Story: Caleb
Caleb’s journey with Goodwill has been nothing short of inspiring. Caleb embarked on a path of skill building that illuminated his determination and kindness. Caleb’s dedication shone through every task.
“Caleb is an extremely hard worker, and he is ready to take on new responsibilities,” says his Career Coach, Meg Barry.
Hoyer receives international sustainability award
Goodwill President and CEO Jeanette Hoyer receives the prestigious Goodwill Industries International Sustainability Champion Award in recognition of her outstanding dedication to advancing sustainable practices and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship within the community.
Employee Spotlight: Kathy Krajkiewicz
For Kathy, Goodwill isn’t just a workplace — it’s her second home. Through her employment at Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, Kathy has achieved the dream of homeownership. Kathy’s infectious laughter and smile illuminate every room she enters.
Kathy shares her wisdom: “Find a job and get something you like – like I have at Goodwill.”
Goodwill awarded Barrier Removal and Employment Success grant
Goodwill was recently awarded a $568,595 Barrier Removal and Employment Success (BRES) grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to provide vocational certificate training in HVAC, forklift, and customer service.
Give your time. Change a life.
Become a Goodwill VITA volunteer!
Goodwill VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteers provide free tax assistance to low- to moderate-income workers and families eligible for significant state and federal tax credits.
Make a difference! Help working people claim and keep all the refunds they are entitled to.
No accounting experience required! Volunteers receive FREE IRS training and certification.
Flexible hours! You can volunteer for day, evening, and/or Saturday hours in any of our tax-prep sites.
Call 231-722-7871, ext. 8482 for more information.
