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people were provided workforce development and support services in 2024
people placed into competitive jobs in the community
average hourly wage ($) of people placed into jobs through Goodwill
Oct 21, 2024
Harvest Nano and Goodwill Industries of West Michigan Unveil Revolutionary Waste-to-Nanocellulose Partnership
PRESS RELEASE
Harvest Nano, a leader in sustainable technology, and Goodwill Industries of West Michigan (GIWM) have joined forces to create and operate Michigan’s first cotton waste textile circularity processing and recycling plant, converting non-saleable textile waste into valuable materials like micro and nanocellulose. This innovative collaboration supports a circular economy, offering significant environmental and economic benefits while transforming the future of sustainable manufacturing.
Using patented technology developed by Dr. Refael Aharon, Harvest Nano converts textile waste into nanocellulose—a lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly material. Nanocellulose, four times stronger than stainless steel, has the potential to revolutionize industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, plastic, 3D print and packaging.
Nanocellulose: A Material for the Future
The partnership uses a system to sort, process, and recycle textile waste into variety of cellulosic raw materials. The materials produced, including low and high value cellulosic products, fine cellulose and micro cellulose, have versatile applications ranging from 3D printing to plastic replacement.
“We are excited to partner with Harvest Nano to bring innovative nanocellulose production to West Michigan. This collaboration highlights our commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking solutions,” said Jeanette Hoyer, President and CEO of GIWM.
Goodwill’s Commitment to Sustainability
By extending their recycling efforts to non-saleable textiles, Goodwill is furthering its environmental mission while creating jobs and supporting local economies.
“Our partnership with Harvest Nano represents an incredible opportunity to advance both environmental sustainability and economic development in our region,” said Nick Carlson, Business Development Director at GIWM. “By working together on the production of nanocellulose, we’re creating innovative solutions that benefit the planet while supporting Goodwill's mission of empowering individuals through meaningful work.”
A Circular Economy in Action
This partnership offers global potential, reducing waste, lowering carbon footprints, and opening new revenue streams. Harvest Nano’s technology will position West Michigan as a leader in sustainable innovation.
Conclusion
By turning waste into a resource, Harvest Nano and Goodwill Industries of West Michigan are leading the shift towards a sustainable, circular economy.
Success Story: Keeria
Working with her Goodwill Career Coach, Keeria was provided job-readiness coaching, interview preparation, résumé assistance, and job-placement support.
View our annual report
Our 2024 annual report recognizes a year of providing community support as well as achievements in our business, our culture, and in changing lives through the power of work.
View our annual report pdf.
Employee Spotlight: Amanda Klug
Amanda began her journey with us at the Ellis store as a part-time associate, and through her dedication, she has become cross-trained in nearly all aspects of retail store operations. Her love for her job and the positive energy she brings to the team are truly inspiring.
“I see the difference Goodwill is making in the community,” Amanda says. “There are so many stories of how Goodwill has impacted people’s lives for the better.”
Achievers of the Year
At the Achievers Awards we celebrate community members who overcame adversity through the power of work, and the employers who supported them.
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.
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.
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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.
