Goodwill, a name synonymous with thrift stores and community support, was established in 1902 by Reverend Edgar J. Helms. A Methodist minister, Helms started the organization in Boston, Massachusetts, with a simple yet profound mission: to help individuals reintegrate into society by providing them with job training and employment opportunities.

Initially, Goodwill focused on training and hiring people who were marginalized due to disabilities, lack of education, or other barriers. Helms believed that by offering these individuals a chance to work and earn a living wage, he could help them regain their dignity and independence. The first Goodwill store was opened in a church basement, where donated goods were sold to fund this mission.

Goodwill’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Goodwill Industries’ current net worth is estimated to be around $5.5 billion. This figure is based on the latest available information and includes the total value of Goodwill’s assets minus its liabilities.

Career

Goodwill Industries was founded in 1902 by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister. The organization began as a way to help people transition from poverty to self-sufficiency. Today, Goodwill is led by President and CEO Steven C. Preston, who has been in the role since 2013.

Other Ventures

In addition to its thrift stores, Goodwill offers a wide range of community-based programs and services. These include job training, employment placement services, and career development assistance. Goodwill also provides support to people with disabilities and disadvantages.

Assets

Goodwill’s assets include over 3,300 retail stores, training centers, and other facilities across the United States and Canada. The organization also has a significant investment portfolio, which includes stocks, bonds, and other securities.

Annual Income

Goodwill Industries generates revenue through the sale of donated goods in its thrift stores, as well as through its community-based programs and services. In 2020, Goodwill’s total revenue was over $5.7 billion. The organization’s annual income has been consistently high, reflecting its widespread support and impact.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Goodwill

Frequently Asked Questions: Goodwill Net Worth

1. What is Goodwill’s net worth?

Goodwill’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 billion.

2. How does Goodwill make money?

Goodwill makes money through the sale of donated goods in its retail stores, as well as through contracts with organizations that need services like document shredding, electronics recycling, and janitorial services.

3. Is Goodwill a non-profit organization?

Yes, Goodwill Industries is a non-profit organization. It is a network of 156 independent, community-based organizations in the United States and Canada.

4. How much of Goodwill’s revenue goes to charity?

According to their financial statements, Goodwill spends about 87% of its revenue on its mission of helping people find jobs and providing community-based services.

5. What is the CEO’s salary at Goodwill?

The CEO of Goodwill Industries International, Inc., is paid around $700,000 annually, according to the organization’s most recent tax filings.

6. How much does Goodwill spend on marketing?

Goodwill spends a relatively small amount on marketing, around 1-2% of its total revenue. This is because much of its marketing is done through community engagement and word-of-mouth.

7. What is the largest Goodwill organization by revenue?

The largest Goodwill organization by revenue is Goodwill Industries of Southern California, with annual revenues of over $300 million.

8. Does Goodwill pay its employees a living wage?

Goodwill has been criticized for not paying all of its employees a living wage. However, some local Goodwill organizations have implemented policies to ensure that their employees earn at least a living wage.

9. What happens to unsold items at Goodwill?

Unsold items at Goodwill are either sent to other Goodwill stores, sold in bulk to textile recyclers, or sent to landfills as a last resort.

10. How can I donate to Goodwill?

You can donate to Goodwill by dropping off items at your local Goodwill store or donation center, or by scheduling a pick-up online or over the phone.