L-R: Audrey Smithson, Chamee Switzer, Meghan Leto, Mary Hunter, Lori Hecht, Shelly Hansen, Breanna Holland
Q: What makes your business special?
A: Goodwill of Central Iowa (GCI) provides skills training and career resources to people facing significant barriers to employment. Our Day Services program focuses on community integration and socialization for individuals with disabilities, encouraging independence and communication while building confidence and providing meaningful opportunities to strengthen workplace skills.
Q: How does your business contribute to the community?
A: GCI helps participants recognize their potential, overcome obstacles and become active members of their communities. We offer a skills training program that builds confidence and job-readiness for individuals facing employment barriers. Our supported employment program helps participants find and maintain meaningful work through personalized job coaching.
Q: What is unique or noteworthy about your team?
A: Our Day Services team leads with compassion and enthusiasm for the work they do. They learn each participant’s strengths, interests and challenges to guide their growth and success. Our participants are included as part of the team. They contribute ideas, plan activities based on their goals, share their talents and have opportunities to lead their peers.
Q: What is your company’s mission, vision or values?
A: Our mission is to make purposeful employment possible for all. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to work, regardless of their history or barriers faced. We envision an inclusive world where communities celebrate each person’s abilities and differences, grounded in love, kindness and respect—for people, their contributions and our planet.
5355 NW 86th Street | Johnston, IA 50131 | (515) 265-5323 | dmgoodwill.org
