Our Mission

Over 100 Years of Good Work

DIVERSITY is in our DNA

Goodwill Southern California has always been inclusive. Since our inception, we have embraced principles of social justice. At a time when Los Angeles practiced segregation, we made it clear that ALL were welcome to use our public drinking fountain.

Goodwill Southern California was founded in 1916 in Los Angeles. Five years before she had the right to vote, a woman, Katherine Higgins, spearheaded our organization, helping people with barriers to employment find good jobs that promote equity and sustainable communities. 

Today, Goodwill SoCal operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our work is funded by cash donations and our social enterprise network, including retail thrift stores, donation centers and business services.

Katherine B. Higgins and members of the community at the opening of the first Goodwill store in Los Angeles on March 9, 1918.

OUR HISTORY

1916

Katherine B. Higgins launches Goodwill Southern California

1916

1918

Goodwill SoCal opens first retail store

1918

1930

Goodwill SoCal takes on the Great Depression

1930

1940

Goodwill SoCal Employs Veterans returning from WWII

1940

1953

Goodwill SoCal receives the Distinguished Service Citation from the President’s Committee

1953

1965

Goodwill SoCal records a first. The placement of over 100 workers in private industry within one year

1965

1991

Goodwill SoCal receives the Recycling Achievement Award from the California Department of Conservation

1991

2005

Goodwill SoCal becomes a state certified collector of e-waste

2005

2012

Goodwill SoCal opens Veterans Center in Atwater Village

2012

2020

Goodwill SoCal adapts its services to address COVID crisis

2020

2020

In response to the employment crisis due to COVID-19, Goodwill SoCal launches the Campaign:

Do Good. DoGoodwill.

2020

OUR PARTNERS

GET INVOLVED

Donate

Your cash donations will help people facing barriers to employment find jobs through Goodwill Southern California’s training and placement programs.

Become a Partner

Join with us to promote economic sustainability for individuals, families and communities in Southern California.

Your business or organization can partner with Goodwill Southern California to promote our mission: Transforming Lives through the Power of Work.