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
Aug 16, 2018
Goodwill Industries welcomes new industrial services manager
PRESS RELEASE
MUSKEGON, MI — Goodwill Industries of West Michigan is pleased to announce the recent hire of Chad Kuipers as its new industrial services manager effective August 13. Chad steps down from his position at Kam Plastics, located in Holland, MI.
Goodwill’s Industrial Services Division operates two manufacturing facilities (Muskegon and Holland) providing outsourcing services such as packaging and assembly to a variety of area businesses and is ISO 9001:2015 certified. The division provides paid work training for people with disabilities as well as ex-offenders enrolled in Goodwill’s various skill-building programs.
Chad has held leadership roles in numerous manufacturing fields and is well-versed in quality systems, continuous improvement, and safety regulations. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Cornerstone University.
“Chad’s expertise is a rare combination of manufacturing and human service work needed for this position. In addition to over 20 years of manufacturing, Chad recently worked as facility and program manager for Benjamin’s Hope, a nonprofit organization serving autistic adults. He also currently volunteers as a mentor to ex-offenders enrolled in the Holland-based charity 70 x 7 Life Recovery, helping ex-offenders successfully transition to the community and understands the challenges they face,” said Goodwill President and CEO Jeanette Hoyer.
“I have a heart to serve and a passion to help transform lives of people with any type barrier to employment. When I was given a tour of Goodwill’s work center, I understood quickly, this is where I belong. I look forward to utilizing my skills and help others grow and change lives.”
Employee Spotlight: Manika Banks
As receptionist, Manika is the first person people see when they walk in the door. Her caring demeanor helps clients and participants feel at ease.
Manika expresses, “I love the people I meet every day working at Goodwill. I enjoy having the opportunity to directly impact lives and change the outcome of someone’s day 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.
Success Story: Billy
Billy walked through the doors seeking work specifically in the janitorial field. Billy’s biggest obstacle to employment was lack of work experience but he was determined and eager to begin receiving a regular paycheck.
“He steps up to help teammates when they are struggling and is always seeking ways to improve efficiency,” says Goodwill Janitorial Manager Amy Cumings.
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.
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.
Goodwill is Committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
