A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO recognize and honor the outstanding economic impact, workforce leadership, and community service of Goodwill Industries in South Carolina and to commend its continued commitment to transforming lives through the power of work.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to recognize the significant and measurable contributions of Goodwill Industries in the State, including Palmetto Goodwill and Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina, which together operate as a mission-driven social enterprise serving communities across the State; and

 

Whereas, according to an independent economic impact study conducted by the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, Goodwill Industries contributed an estimated six hundred and thirty-eight million dollars to South Carolina's economy in 2024, reflecting its far-reaching influence on job creation, workforce participation, and community investment; and

 

Whereas, Goodwill's operations support approximately fifteen thousand jobs across South Carolina that would not otherwise exist, demonstrating the organization's critical role in sustaining employment and strengthening the State's labor force during a period of continued workforce shortages; and

 

Whereas, in 2024 alone, Goodwill delivered career and employment services to more than twenty-three thousand South Carolinians, helping individuals enter or re-enter the workforce and equipping them with the skills and credentials necessary to achieve long-term economic stability; and

 

Whereas, these efforts resulted in more than ten thousand individuals being placed into employment in 2024, with an average starting wage of sixteen dollars and fifty cents per hour, contributing to higher household earnings and reduced reliance on public assistance; and

 

Whereas, since 2017, Goodwill has served approximately two hundred fifty thousand South Carolinians, including working-age adults, young people entering the workforce, older adults, veterans and military family members, individuals with disabilities, and justice-involved individuals, ensuring access to opportunity for populations often facing barriers to employment; and

 

Whereas, through its network of retail stores, donation centers, and career and training centers across the State, Goodwill delivers day-to-day benefits that extend beyond retail operations to include workforce development, education assistance, increased community spending, and long-term economic growth; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate commend Goodwill Industries for advancing the dignity of work, strengthening communities, and serving as a trusted partner in building a resilient and inclusive state economy.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and honor the outstanding economic impact, workforce leadership, and community service of Goodwill Industries in South Carolina and commend its continued commitment to transforming lives through the power of work.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the leadership of Palmetto Goodwill and Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina

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