Goodwill Industries of Middle TN Inc

Goodwill industries of middle tennessee is committed to sustainability and protecting the planet. One of the ways we achieve this is through our salvage operations, which recycle the majority of donations that do not sell in our retail stores, online, or outlet locations. In 2024 alone, we repurposed or reused more than 27.7 million pounds of salvage and recyclable materials, keeping them out of landfills. We also sold 7.8 million pounds of clothing through our stores and outlets, preventing over 21.8 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere. This has had a tremendous positive impact on the environment by reducing waste and preventing harmful toxins from leaching into the soil and water supply. In addition to our recycling efforts, goodwill industries of middle tennessee's thrift sales also play a significant role in promoting sustainability. By selling donated clothing, household goods, and furniture at affordable prices, we help to reduce the demand for new goods, which in turn saves energy, reduces carbon emissions, and conserves natural resources. According to the environmental protection agency, for every 1 ton of textiles that are reused or recycled, approximately 5.6 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions are prevented from entering the atmosphere. By this calculation, the 27.7 million pounds of textiles salvaged or recycled by goodwill in 2024 alone had a significant environmental impact. These efforts prevented nearly 171 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere. By recycling 3.5 million pounds of cardboard and paper pulp, goodwill industries of middle tennessee also saved more than 29,750 trees from being cut down. Trees play a crucial role in reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, so preserving them is an essential part of any sustainability effort. Through our recycling and thrift sales programs, we are proud to contribute to the fight against climate change while providing valuable job training and employment opportunities to members of our community.

Career solutions sites: goodwill industries of middle tennessee is committed to providing free education and training programs and placement services to individuals with disabilities and others facing barriers to employment. Through the sale of donated items, we offer education and training programs, and employment services at no cost to thousands of clients every year. Our vision is that all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential through the power of work. With 13 career solutions centers located throughout our service area, we provide job fairs, job readiness training, and one-on-one career navigation services to all clients. In addition, we offer a range of classes, including resume writing, interview skills, and basic digital literacy. To further expand our reach, we have a mobile career center to provide remote training, and job search assistance to rural communities.