What to Expect in 2021

Goodwill is sharing what to expect in 2021 for our organization!

Like others, we here at Goodwill breathed a collective sigh of relief when the clock struck midnight and we ushered in the new year. We know 2021 will have its challenges, but there is a greater sense of optimism and hope as we begin this new year.

So, what does 2021 have in store for your Goodwill?

WIRED UP

The need for technology in 2020 was alarming. School-age children continue to log into their virtual classrooms each day. Many workers continue to work from home. The need for proper equipment and connectivity is key to success for these students and workers.

In January 2021, Goodwill introduced Wired Up, a program designed to sell gently used computer equipment to the public. Goodwill has always accepted computers, computer equipment and accessories as donations. Wired Up now brings a greater awareness to the opportunity to donate these items, and introduces a comprehensive process to test, clean and then resell these items to the public. Just as all sales in Goodwill stores, the revenue generated from Wired Up sales become vital funding for outreach programs in the local community.

Today, Wired Up has translated into a micro-store located within the North Olmsted Goodwill retail store. The dedicated area includes a wide variety of monitors, keyboards, cords and even gaming equipment available for purchase 50-90% less than retail prices.

Wired Up equipment is also for sale at Strongsville retail stores, with plans to expand to other locations in the coming months.

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

When Goodwill stores were permitted to reopen in June 2020, the Shaker Heights location was not reopened. One thing you can expect in 2021, a new retail store just a few miles away from the original location. The University Heights location is currently accepting donations.

Originally slated to open late summer of 2020, COVID delayed the opening of this new location to April 2021. The new store will nearly triple the size of the sales floor and offer a more convenient donor experience to area residents. Special discounts and incentives will be announced during the store opening in early April.

DONATIONS

We oftentimes say ‘donations are our lifeblood.’ It’s true. Goodwill is the original social enterprise, designed to accept donations of clothing and housewares from the community, process those goods and then offer those products for sale in our stores. Funds raised through those sales support a comprehensive network of local services; employment training and placement, family strengthening programs, social services and much more.

During the COVID shutdown, many residents took the opportunity to clean out their basements, closets and garage. As a result, we experienced a tremendous increase in our donations. Things have quieted down since then, and the stream of donations has decreased. Donations are needed more than ever, to keep the stores running and to keep our services funded. There is a great need currently for housewares; small appliances, kitchen gadgets, pots and pans, dishes, décor and seasonal items.

LOOKING AHEAD

It’s difficult for any of us to know what to expect in 2021. We have all learned to take things day by day, sometimes hour by hour. We are hopeful at Goodwill that positive change lies ahead. And, we are grateful for the community members, the funders, the donors, the shoppers and the staff that allow us to carry out our mission each and every day.