Our History

Reverend Edgar James Helms started Goodwill Industries International in 1902, with a mission to “be a provider of employment, training and rehabilitation for people of limited employability, and a source of temporary assistance for individuals whose resources were depleted.” Southern Oregon Goodwill is proud to carry on that mission today, with services that have changed thousands of lives in our region for over the last 50 years.

1967

Southern Oregon Goodwill Industries is incorporated.

1974

Southern Oregon Goodwill earns its initial three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

1976

Southern Oregon Goodwill opens its headquarters at 11 W. Jackson St.

1989

Goodwill launches Office Career Training to teach people computer skills and how to use adaptive technology.

1993

Southern Oregon Goodwill opens its first store and services office in Klamath Falls.

1996

Goodwill develops Welfare to Work partnerships tailored to helping people get training, find work, and build and maintain family stability.

1997

Southern Oregon Goodwill starts job training and placement programs in Douglas County.

2008

Goodwill begins selling online via shopgoodwill.com.

2012

The first Job Connection Center at 11 W. Jackson St. in Medford debuts, providing free computer access and help for job seekers.

2014

Use of 14c Labor Certificate ends, and all individuals employed by Goodwill are paid at least minimum wage regardless of disability status.

2015

The first Learning Lab in Medford opens.

2017

Southern Oregon Goodwill observes its 50th anniversary in a year-long celebration.

2020

Southern Oregon Goodwill navigates a global pandemic that resulted in closing all locations for approximately two months.

2021

The Yreka retail, donation, and Job Connection location opens.

2022

The GoodWorks training and advancement program launches.