Employment Services
Through Goodwill, employees like Lily Bradford have not only overcome barriers to employment, but have grown personally and professionally as well.
Four years ago, Lily started her job with Goodwill of Central Illinois right after graduating high school. It was her first job and she was thrilled about the prospect of meeting new customers and coworkers. However, she was also nervous about accomplishing her tasks, navigating her disability and had yet to overcome her shyness.
Lily already had the internal drive and excitement necessary to succeed; Goodwill simply provided the environment where she could truly flourish. With help from supportive leadership and coworkers, Lily has become one of the best cashiers at the retail store in Galesburg, Illinois. She adapts to new processes and gains such a great understanding of them that she can train new employees.
“Lily is a prime example of people with different disabilities achieving their goals,” said Jennifer Fox, the site leader of the Galesburg location. “She’s a model employee, who’s very helpful and very kind.”
Her team celebrates all of her wins inside and outside of the workplace. Lily has improved her independence by taking the Handivan to work, an accessible transportation option for those with disabilities. In the future, she is looking forward to staying at Goodwill for as long as she can as well, interacting with coworkers and customers, and learning anything her role requires.
“It’s my dream job,” said Lily.“
Inside the Numbers
- Over 6,000 people are employed with Goodwill.
- Over 60% have a barrier to employment such as limited education, a disability or a criminal record.
Youth Services
For over 15 years, Goodwill of Central Illinois has operated the GoodGuides Youth Mentoring program, matching hundreds of kids ages 12-17 with mentors. The program offers one-on-one and group mentoring that provides the youth with guidance, support and future planning, one conversation at a time. Mentees can discuss their options about joining the workforce or continuing their education.
Group mentoring takes place in a school setting and gives each young participant a sense of unity as they learn they’re not alone in the challenges they encounter.
By supporting Goodwill through shopping and donating, you’re changing the life of a young person. You’re creating a future full of confidence and support.
Inside the Numbers
- Over 200 young people have been served in 2025.
Veterans Services
After being discharged from service, many veterans find themselves in need of support. Veterans can turn to Goodwill of Central Illinois to find supportive services, community engagement, training and job referral opportunities.
That was the case for Ricky Dean, a resident of General Wayne A. Downing Home for Veterans operated by Goodwill of Central Illinois. After serving four years in the United States Army as an infantry man and later a medic, Ricky was honorably discharged to a successful and fulfilling life. But life is a journey and often journeys take detours.
After the death of his parents, Ricky found himself experiencing housing insecurity and battling alcohol and drug addiction. That’s when he met Mel Greene, housing manager at Goodwill’s veterans home. Once he became a resident of the home, Ricky felt its effects.
“It gives you structure and teaches you how to get your mind back into living a clean and serene life,” he said.
One of his first accomplishments was obtaining his drivers license, something he hadn’t had in 20 years. While Ricky was assisted by Goodwill staff in studying for his drivers test, he also received assistance from his fellow veterans at the home. He admitted he wasn’t much of a cook, but his housemates are helping him. “I’m learning, I’m learning,” said Ricky.
He has also participated in Goodwill’s Stand Down for Veterans, a grass-roots community based event to provide veterans with much needed resources. In 2025, he attended his Stand Down and was amazed by all the services and assistance available to our veterans.
Ricky is currently working with Goodwill’s staff to obtain his veterans benefits from Veterans Affairs. He also plans to begin taking Goodwill’s computer classes. While Ricky has made great strides since moving into the home, his biggest accomplishment is being clean and sober for seven months!
Inside the Numbers
- Veterans were provided over 5,000 days of housing in 2025.
- Over 350 veterans were served in 2025.