When was Goodwill founded?

Goodwill was founded in 1902 by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a minister who hired a group of unemployed workers to collect and repair unwanted goods from wealthy Boston neighborhoods. The goods were resold at a fraction of their original value to cover labor costs, according to the company's corporate website.

Goodwill Industries International is a $4 billion worldwide nonprofit corporation with over 180 autonomous member organizations, as stated on the company's website. The company's objective is to provide individuals with a chance to improve their lives rather than providing outright charity. This idea is reflected in the company's mission statement of work and opportunity, which is featured on its website.