Your Local Goodwill CEO Should Be a Millionaire (But They're Not)

Did you know the average local Goodwill region operates around 21 stores and generates roughly $50 million in annual revenue? That's a serious business. Yet, the CEOs leading these organizations often earn salaries two to four times lower than their private sector counterparts. Why? Because they're driven by something more than just profit: a mission of changing lives through the power of work.

Now you know Goodwill’s mission.

Goodwill provides second, third, and even fourth chances to people facing barriers to employment. People like me. As someone who has struggled with alcoholism, I know how much support it takes from your community to change your life. Goodwill doesn't judge. They offer opportunities to rebuild, learn new skills, and regain self-sufficiency. For many, Goodwill is a stepping stone, a chance to prove themselves and transition back into the workforce. It's a lifeline when no one else will extend a hand.

Your local Goodwill takes chances on people with obstacles to employment.

At Thriftly, we are partnering with local Goodwill regions to build software that complements their operational expertise. Together, we unlock opportunities for Goodwill to fulfill its mission more impactfully. Powered by recent advances in AI, we’ve built a copilot that helps entry-level workers be 35%+ more productive with pricing and sorting donated goods. Our proprietary machine learning helps Goodwill price items strategically, driving double-digit revenue growth. This translates to higher wages and more opportunities for those Goodwill serves.

Thriftly co-founders Josh (left) and me, Andy. We’ve fallen in love with the Goodwill Movement.

Josh Packard and I co-founded Thriftly to lead the thrift revolution. Our first step? Helping entry-level employees have an opportunity to earn a living wage from day one, in partnership with your local Goodwill.

Scrutinize misinformation

Think about it: we readily accept millionaire football coaches being paid by non-profit universities, even though they knowingly put our kids at substantial risk for head trauma and more. It’s preposterous. Yet, we hear a rumor of a CEO somewhere getting rich off donations (they’re not) and we accept it. Local Goodwill leaders dedicate their lives to uplifting the most vulnerable members of our community. It's time to examine our beliefs and celebrate the value of Goodwill's mission.

Join us in supporting your local Goodwill and its leaders. They're underpaid and running a big business that’s changing lives in your community.