With the seasons changing and the end of 2019 fast approaching, it is a great time to take a moment to reflect on what we are grateful for. At Goodwill, we are extremely grateful to celebrate our 100th anniversary this year. Since 1919, we have had the privilege of helping thousands of men, women, and families find dignity and hope through Goodwill. Founded on the principle of “Not Charity, but a Chance,” we have witnessed again and again the transforming Power of Work.
Goodwill is also grateful for the wonderful support we receive from the community and from our donors. In early 2019, a dear friend of ours, Bettie Z., passed away and left a portion of her estate to Goodwill. Bettie was a retired elementary school teacher whose late brother was served by Goodwill’s employment programs. Bettie was one of the most active and young at heart 94-year-olds you could ever meet. She was fiercely independent and though she never learned to drive, Bettie would take the bus to travel all around the city, exploring new restaurants and cultural institutions. As a patron of the arts, she loved being surrounded by beauty.
Bettie was a dedicated supporter of Goodwill for over 25 years. She appreciated Goodwill’s mission of serving both individuals with disabilities and individuals with disadvantages who have barriers to employment. Bettie also volunteered for Goodwill and even organized a clothing donation drive at the apartment complex she lived in.
While we were sad to lose Bettie, we were honored that she chose Goodwill to be part of the legacy she left behind. Her generous gift of over $200,000 will help create lasting impact for the hardworking individuals we serve through our employment programs and supportive services.
You too can have a lasting impact on our community by making a planned gift to Goodwill. There are many easy ways including:
- Naming Goodwill Industries in your will.
- Giving Goodwill Industries an insurance gift.
- Declaring Goodwill Industries as a beneficiary of a 401(k) or 403(b).
- Donating your IRA minimum distribution to Goodwill Industries.
If you or a loved one is interested in learning about establishing a long-term legacy by making a planned gift to Goodwill, click here to learn more about making a planned gift, or contact Brigette Sahlstrom, Development Manager, at bsahlstrom@goodwillsew.com or 414-847-4173.
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