Mission Possible: Goodwill embarks on $230M community action plan

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries has launched a $230 million investment in the Greater Cincinnati community through a five-year action plan titled “Mission Possible.”

The plan responds to a community needs assessment conducted last year, which identified gaps in affordable housing, job placement and youth employment services.

As part of the plan, OVGI launched several new programs through its revamped Mission Services division, now known as GoodCommunities: Impact and Investment. The new name reflects the addition of three expanded programs designed to address the service gaps identified in the assessment, ultimately empowering thousands more people throughout the Tri-State.

• GoodSupport Housing: OVGI recognizes how critical stable housing is to securing employment or completing school. Individuals facing homelessness can contact OVGI’s housing help center for one-on-one housing navigation, case management services, and tenant education.
• GoodWork Pathways: The program provides personalized support to help people navigate challenges, build confidence, and advance their careers.
• Youth Employment Services: The program will offer high school students with physical or intellectual disabilities summer work experience in 2025. Job coaches will support students and place them at various Goodwill locations for paid learning experiences, where they can develop new skills. Registration begins in March 2025.

Based on economic impact projections, OVGI expects the investment to contribute at least $265 million to the local economy over the next five years.

“We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive,” said Gladys Ahovi, VP of community impact and investment at OVGI. She noted that the nonprofit plans to increase access to the new programs through the Opportunity Center at its main campus in Woodlawn.

“With our expanded programming, powered by the Community Needs Assessment, we provide the tools for individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve their goals,” Ahovi continued. “Together, we can create lasting change in our community.”

Investing in what the community needs

OVGI conducted the assessment to evaluate its services and identify new ways to better meet community needs. The goal was to better understand the population, socio-economic factors, workforce, services and resources within the Greater Cincinnati area.

The report used data from Cincinnati Children’s community health needs assessment and other publicly available sources. Key factors included population demographics, labor market trends, economic conditions, poverty levels, and access to education, transportation and digital technology.

OVGI also explored the needs of underrepresented populations, such as individuals with disabilities, formerly incarcerated individuals, veterans, rural populations, and families with preschool-aged children. The findings highlighted where OVGI could make the most significant impact.

Key findings

• Disabilities: 13% of the population has disabilities, mainly aged 35-64. Engaging with individuals across disability types is crucial to identifying service needs.
• Workforce: Limited affordable housing and low graduation rates in rural areas, such as Switzerland County, Indiana, hinder job creation. Aligning education with job opportunities can improve employment outcomes.
• Re-entry: Supporting formerly incarcerated individuals with comprehensive services and evidence-based programs is critical for reducing recidivism. Collaboration with mental health services is necessary to remove barriers.
• Veterans: Veterans, particularly those aged 75 and over, need mental health support and services such as shelter and transportation for better well-being.
• Families with preschool-aged children: With 72% of children under 6 having working parents, addressing child care gaps is essential.

“Our plan for GoodCommunities mission services marks a pivotal moment in our history,” said Mark Hiemstra, OVGI’s president and CEO, who says his organization plans to open at least 30 new stores by 2030 to assist with fundraising.

“GoodCommunities is designed to meet people where they are, empowering them with the resources and support they need to build better lives,” he added. “We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to improve their circumstances, and we are committed to making that a reality.”

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries