Interim CEO Chris Daniels recently told members of the Goodwill Board of Directors that efforts would be maintained on meetings initiated earlier in the year with potential public and private donors, but at this time, it was important to let the public know the funds they have donated are being put to good use to move the campaign and mission of the organization forward. Board President Scott Briggs said the board was pleased with the progress being made and looks for the having the capital campaign wrapped up by the close of 2012.

September marks the beginning of the 76th year of service for Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma. The organization has celebrated its 75th Anniversary Year by completing a move to its new multifunction campus, which serves as the organization’s central headquarters, a recycling and distribution center and houses one of its main retail stores and donation centers.

Major funders supporting the $1.8 million collected thus far in the capital campaign include, the: E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, Inasmuch Foundation, Devon Energy and Chesapeake Energy. Capital funds have been used to relocate Goodwill to Reno and Blackwelder and for renovations of the facilities on the 20-acre campus. Goodwill’s move became necessary in 2010 because the old headquarters and processing facilities were located on properties that will be part of Oklahoma City’s “Core to Shore” project.

Daniels told the board during the report that Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma had not missed a beat during the move. The organization continues to perform well in this economy and the organization’s mission and plans are currently on target for projected growth. Two years ago, Goodwill began moving toward opening additional strategically-located donation centers across central Oklahoma and to trim marginally-performing public and private contracts.

In 2010, Goodwill, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and a United Way partner agency, served 6,414 people through its various educational, service and job training programs. The organization as already served 4,561 people during the first seven months of 2010; all in an effort to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and disadvantages through the power of work.

The Goodwill mission came to Oklahoma City in 1936 through the efforts of publisher E.K. Gaylord. Gaylord believed then, just as Goodwill does today, that the power and dignity of work can transform lives and communities.

Demand for services has sharply increased as the changing economy leaves more people in the shadows. Contributions will enable Goodwill to deliver more programs devoted to youth services, mentoring, family strengthening, occupational skills training, and workforce readiness.