Return to flip book view

Message 2024 ANNUALREPORTCreating Ripples of Change

WelcomeOpening Letter from our President & CEOAt Ohio Valley Goodwill, we believe that every smallchoice can create a ripple of lasting change. In 2024,those ripples became waves. This past year, we took bold steps to reimagine howGoodwill serves the community—launching Empoweredby Will as a rallying spirit and reintroducing our missionservices as GoodCommunities: Impact and InvestmentServices. These changes were more than a new name orlogo. They were a reflection of the power we see inevery person we serve, and a clearer invitation for ourcommunity to join us in creating opportunity.Across Greater Cincinnati and beyond, those ripples ofimpact could be felt everywhere:Smiles of individuals stepping into new careers.Determination of veterans finding a fresh start.Innovation of young designers reimaginingsustainability alongside us.Generosity of donors and businessesstanding with our mission.Dear Friends and Partners,This was the first year of our five-year journey toward2030, guided by a strategic vision to:Serve more people throughinnovative program expansion.Ensure financial sustainability bydiversifying revenue streams.Invest in our people, strengtheningwellness, engagement, and leadership.Modernize infrastructure and processesto elevate every experience we deliver.And through the collective power of a good heart and astrong will, we are seeing what's possible. We are deeplygrateful to every donor, shopper, participant, employee,business partner, and volunteer who made this yearextraordinary. Your belief in our work fuels the futurewe’re building—one choice, one opportunity, one rippleat a time.Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.With gratitude,Mark HiemstraMark HiemstraPresident & CEO Ohio Valley Goodwill IndustriesFrom Vision to Action. A Five-Year Path Emerges.A Bold Step

What Change Looked Likein 2024Reimagining What’s PossibleIncreasing Our FootprintPOWERED BYPURPOSESUSTAINABILITY IN ACTIONFINANCESMISSION-FUNDEDIMPACT14GoodWorks PathwaysOverview & 2024 Key HighlightsImpact Story: More Than A Job SearchWhere Purpose Meets Possibility16GoodSupport HousingOverview & 2024 Key HighlightsServing Those Who Served UsImpact Story: Finding More Than A Home Celebrating Community20GoodLife ServicesOverview & 2024 Key HighlightsImpact Story: Every Choice Creates A RippleThe Journey of DonationsTurning Donations Into Outcomes222424 Year CARF AccreditationA Message of Gratitude2024 Financial Overview1202030406070810Honoring Our Past. To Shape Our Future.(Intro to GoodCommunities)(Formerly DevelopmentalDisability Services)

Increasing Our FootprintExpanding for Greater ImpactIn 2024, Ohio Valley Goodwill continued to grow strategically,strengthening our ability to serve more people and meet communityneeds through thoughtful expansion and innovation.Mark HiemstraDeerfied Grand OpeningAugust 2024 marked the grandopening of our brand-newDeerfield store. This locationexpands our retail presence in a high-growth area, creatingjobs, generating revenue formission-based services, andincreasing access for donors and shoppers alike.We also opened a new GoodwillOutlet store on our Main Campusin Woodlawn, with a focus onsustainability and environmentalresponsibility. At this location, all unsold clothing is baled on-siteand sent for textile recycling—keeping usable material out oflandfills and contributing to a more circular economy.In August 2024, we completed a major remodel of our Fairfieldlocation. This update wasn’t justcosmetic—it included the creationof dedicated space for the futureFairfield Opportunity Center. This center will offer workforcedevelopment services and job training, providing a local hub for community support and empowerment.FAIRFIE L D DEERFIE L D WOODLAW NPreparing for FutureOpportunityA New Store, A New StartSustainability in ActionEvery new or remodeled location strengthens our mission. Retail growth directly fuels our ability to provide jobtraining, career services, and community-based programs. By increasing our footprint, we are building pathways toopportunity and serving more people every day.More Stores = More Services = More Lives Transformed

sales floor, and building workplace skills. Participantsin Work Adjustment Training and other vocationalprograms also benefit from these donated goods, using them as a platform for job readiness, confidence-building, and skill development.And when individuals shop at Goodwill, they aredirectly supporting this mission. Eighty-five cents of every dollar spent in our retailstores helps fund GoodCommunities: Impact andInvestment Services—including job training, accessiblehousing, skill development, and basic needs supportsuch as our Good Food Pantry.Where PurposeAt Ohio Valley Goodwill, every donation and everypurchase fuels something far greater than a transaction—it fuels transformation.When community members donate items to Goodwill,they help divert millions of pounds of textiles andgoods from landfills each year. But the impact doesn’tstop with environmental sustainability. Thesedonations also create meaningful employmentopportunities for individuals across our servicenetwork. Students in our Summer Youth Program,many of whom are living with developmentaldisabilities and transitioning out of high school, spendtheir summer gaining hands-on experience at Goodwilllocations—sorting donations, preparing items for theMeets PossiblityThe Impact of Shopping & DonatingCurrent Retail Locations

Celebrating Community2024 Events that Connect and InspireCommunity engagement is woven into everything we do. In 2024,we hosted and joined events that celebrated the people we serve—powerful reminders of why connection and inclusion matter.In July, GoodLife participantsjoined the annual Disability PrideFlag Raising at Cincinnati City Hall—a powerful moment ofvisibility, advocacy, and pride. The symbolic event honors thedisability community’s history and achievements while givingparticipants a chance to berecognized and stand in solidaritywith others.Held each June, our 23rd AnnualGolf Outing remains a favoritefundraising tradition—bringingtogether local legends, Bengalsalumni, and supporters for a day of camaraderie and impact. Hostedby longtime advocate Joe Walter, the event blends competition with community, all in support of our mission and giving back.For the ninth year, we proudlysponsored PigAbilities—an inclusiveFlying Pig Marathon event whereathletes of all abilities complete theirrace, their way. For our CARE andWAT participants, it’s a belovedtradition. Many train year-round andwear their medals long after thefinish line. More than a race,PigAbilities celebrates achievement,expression, and community.PIGABIL I TI E S DISABIL I TY PR ID E F LA G R AI S IN G 23RD AN N UA L G OL F O UT I NGShowcasing All AbilitiesHonoring Identityand AdvocacyTeed Up for Impact

Each year, GoodSupport Housinghosts Holiday Hopefest—a festivenight of music, dancing, anddinner for individuals receivinghousing support. Held at theSharonville Convention Center,the event brings together clients,staff, and partners to celebratecommunity, compassion, andshared joy.CARE participants embracedHalloween with creativity andconfidence—selecting costumes,walking the runway, and trick-or-treating across campus. Morethan fun, these events foster self-expression, connection, and the joy of belonging in asupportive community.Each November, we host a Veterans Day Luncheon with ourService Guild to honor those who’veserved—with a home-cooked meal,hygiene kits, and heartfeltrecognition. In 2024, we namedDaniel Guidos our Veteran of theYear—a former participant turnednurse who now gives back to fellowveterans in his community.VETERAN S D A Y LU N CH EO N HOLIDAY HO P EF ES T HALLOWE E N W IT H C AR EA Tradition of GratitudeA Night of Joy andTogethernessMoments That Matter

At Ohio Valley Goodwill, sustainability isn’t just a practice—it’s a promise. In 2024, we proudly diverted morethan 10 million pounds of textiles from local landfills, extending the life cycle of donated goods and reducingenvironmental impact across our region.Our closed-loop system gives every item a second life—whether sold, reused, or recycled. It’s how we reduce waste, support a circular economy, and stay true to our commitment toenvironmental stewardship. Through this effort, we not only protect our planet, but also fund vital mission services that uplift individuals and strengthen communities. Goodwill’s Opportunity for Textile Circularityof DonationsThe Journey

Turning DonationsInto OutcomesYear after year, more people are turning to us—and we’re ready. Thisgrowth reflects not just rising demand, but our commitment to meet itwith compassion, resources, and results.Behind every serviceis a step forward. More lives touched. More futures changed.

Board ofDirectors Execuve Staff Kendra Bach,Chairperson Keith Cheesman, ViceChairperson & Treasurer Jennifer Smith, Secretary Mark Hiemstra, President & CEOBill Courtney, Former ChairpersonSue Burreson, Service Guild President Kathy Lamping-Arar Patti J. Broshar Zach Horn Zachary Kempton, CPA Unique Kizer Kimberly Mauer Shannon Kuhl Shane Satterfield Charles C. Wright Mark Hiemstra,President & CEOJeff Eastham, VP OperationsKelly Schoembs, VP Employee ExperienceDawn Corley, VP Retail ServicesGladys Ahovi, VP Community ImpactSherwood MacVeigh, VP MarketingMike Speed, CFOFrom Vision to Action. A Five-Year Path Emerges.With a bold vision to expand programs, grow financialsustainability, invest in people, and modernize systems.That vision is already making waves: more careerslaunched, more veterans supported, and more liveschanged across Greater Cincinnati.This year we introduced Empowered by Will andGoodCommunities to reflect the spirit and scope of our work—powered by every donor, shopper, partner,and team member shaping a more inclusive future.A Bold Step Community Impact To eliminate barriers, empower individuals, and elevate human potenal. MissionCreate a vibrant sustainablecommunity where everyone has an opportunity to make an impact. VisionOur Impact At A Glance1.9M+Individuals Impacted53.2M+Economic Impact36.1MlbsProducts Recycled477Clients Placed in Employment5.9M+Wages Earned by Clients92,934Services Provided2024Financial Overview

Financial Stascs Program Parcipaon *May have included enrollment, placement, financialassistance and/or monthly case management. *Included food pantry, medical equipment loans, and new bankaccounts set up/financial coaching with First Financial Bank.*4+ hours = 1 Day

This is the Goodwill Way.Powered by purpose,driven by progress, andbuilt for possibility.

To Shape Our Future.Honoring Our Past.In 2024, we redefined our mission and launched GoodCommunities: Impact + InvestmentServices—a unified approach to delivering life-changing support through GoodLife,GoodWorks, and GoodSupport.This renewed strategy reflects our deep commitment to breaking down barriers, investing inpeople, and building lasting self-sufficiency. It’s about creating ripples of positive change thatreach across our region and beyond.Looking ahead, we’re expanding how and where we serve. By 2030, our goal is to operate 30 retail locations that fuel both sustainability and services, and to grow a network ofOpportunity Centers—walk-in spaces where individuals can directly access support. Fairfield and Tri-County are already leading the way, with more to come.Invest in people and compassionate leadershipExpand services and deepen impactEliminate barriers and open doors to opportunityOur roadmap forward is clear:Growing Impact, Deepening CommitmentOur vision is bold: to create vibrant, sustainable communitieswhere everyone has the opportunity to make an impact.

Provides access to safe, stablehousingConnects individuals andfamilies to housing solutionsPromotes long-term stabilityand community integrationSupports a life of dignity,independence, and purposeEnables person-centered,choice-driven servicesFosters inclusion, empowerment,and belongingStrengthens workforcedevelopmentPrepares individuals formeaningful employmentBuilds job readiness, mobility,and growthReimaginingWhat’s PossibleEmpowering Potential Across Every PathAt Ohio Valley Goodwill, our programs are the heart of our mission—designed to meetindividuals where they are and help them move forward with purpose, support, and dignity.Each service we offer is grounded in our commitment to eliminating barriers and elevatinghuman potential. In 2024, thousands of individuals engaged with our programs—each story, a step toward self-sufficiency, inclusion, and personal growth.Across all programs, our focus remains the same: to serve people with compassion, to supportindividual goals, and to build communities where everyone belongs. These programs are morethan services—they’re stepping stones to opportunity, driven by the belief that everyonedeserves a chance to thrive.Together under GoodCommunities, these service lines embody our promise to championpotential, remove obstacles, and help people write their own success stories.(Formerly Developmental Disability Services)

GoodWorks Pathways connectspeople to opportunity throughjob training, career coaching,and meaningful employment—supporting economic mobilityand long-term success.Fueled by skill.Driven by will.Workforce Development & Training137Placements at PAC(Placement Assistance Center)$16.77Average Wage111New Employment OpportunitiesGoodWorks Pathways is a comprehensive workforcedevelopment initiative that provides training, coaching,and employment support for individuals navigating awide range of challenges. Whether someone is enteringthe workforce for the first time, transitioning careers, or overcoming personal barriers to employment,GoodWorks offers: Job readiness training and skills developmentOne-on-one career coachingConnection to employment opportunities tailoredto individual goals and abilitiesGoodWorks is more than a job training program—it’s a pathway to empowerment, economic mobility, and lasting success.Key 2024Highlights

MICHAEL BRADSHAW“Our job is to helpparticipants becomeself-sufficient—through soft skills,SMART goals, anddaily encouragementto be their best.”At GoodWorks, employment is just thestart. Participants arrive daily, facingbarriers like housing, childcare, andreentry challenges.Confidence. Care. Opportunity.More Than AJob SearchLeadershipIn ActionThrough job coaching, AI training, and essentials like food andhygiene kits, the GoodWorks team helps individuals take steadysteps toward self-sufficiency. People like Rex return often, workingwith staff to build resumes, prepare for interviews, and navigatedifficult conversations with potential employers. GoodWorks isn’tjust a place to find work—it’s a place to rediscover potential. Withdeep compassion and clear vision, Michael Bradshaw leads the teamthat empowers every visitor with tools, belief, and the support theyneed to succeed.MICHAEL BRADSHAW,Director of Workforce Development

GoodSupport Housing helpsindividuals and families navigatelife’s challenges with stablehousing, personalized care, andpathways to long-term stability.Opening doors.Rebuilding lives.Housing & Veteran Dorm Programs77People Housed60Veterans ServedKey 2024Highlights3,261Housing Services ProvidedOhio Valley Goodwill’s housing programs helpindividuals and families facing homelessness regainstability and independence. We offer person-centered support that meets immediate needs andpromotes long-term housing success, including:Transitional housing for veteransDaily mealsCase management and personalized plansRapid re-housingPermanent housing placementEviction preventionTogether, these services break the cycle ofhomelessness and strengthen our community.

In 2003, Marine Corps veteran Jesse Walker facedunimaginable loss and homelessness. A conversationwith a VA nurse led him to Goodwill, where he beganRebuilding through transitional housing and HVRPsupport. He started on the loading dock and rose toDock Foreman—known for his quiet strength andleadership. Though health issues briefly paused hisjourney, Jesse returned with purpose, becoming amentor and steady force in the Goodwill community.2024 Veteran’s Luncheon RecognitionAs a veteran himself, Gregg Weikert brings empathyand purpose to his role supporting others throughhousing, employment, and guidance. Whether it’sthrough housing assistance, employment guidance, or alistening ear, Gregg leads with empathy and experience.In 2024, his dedication was honored at a CincinnatiBengals game, where he was named Veteran of Honor—a fitting tribute to someone who never stops serving.Supporting Veterans with Purpose JESSE WALKERDock ForemanGREGG WEIKERTVeteran Dorm SupervisorVeterans ServicesWho Served UsServing ThoseWe’ve long supported veterans transitioning to civilian life.In 2024, we expanded that commitment with tailored jobtraining, housing support, and mental health resources.

At the heart of our mission are thepeople we serve. These are theirstories—stories of perseverance,growth, and transformation thatinspire us every day.Participant StoriesFinding MoreThan A Home

Quentin’s journey reflects thepower of stable housing,employment opportunity, and apositive mindset working in syncto drive long-term success.Quentin D. joined Goodwill’s HUD (Housing and UrbanDevelopment) Rapid Rehousing program in fall 2024 afterrelocating from Georgia in search of stability. Within a month, hesecured housing and began working closely with his case managerto build a strong foundation. By November, Quentin was hired atthe Goodwill Tri-County store and quickly promoted to Leadthanks to his dedication and reliability. He remains activelyengaged with both Housing and Workforce Development teams as he pursues his next career goal—becoming a truck driver.Andrew “Andy” Smith is a trusted partner in our GoodSupport Housing efforts,providing safe, affordable housingacross Cincinnati for over threeyears. As a real estate attorney and compassionate landlord, Andygoes above and beyond—offeringquality units without requiringburdensome deposits andresponding to tenant needs with care and urgency.Many individuals housed throughour programs choose to stay inAndy’s units long-term, a reflectionof the stability and respect hehelps create. His professionalismand empathy make him an essentialpart of our mission to build lastinghousing solutions.A Landlord Who ListensQuentin D.

GoodLife Services createssupportive environments whereindividuals with disabilities cangrow in independence, connectwith others, and live with purpose.Everyonedeserves to thrive.Ohio Valley Goodwill empowers individuals withdevelopmental disabilities through programs thatfoster independence, social connection, andemployment. Our person-centered services include:Adult Day Services (CARE Program): Personaldevelopment, social engagement, and life skillsJob Coaching: One-on-one employment supportWork Adjustment Training: Workplace readinessand skill-buildingSummer Youth Work Experience: Jobexperiences for students with disabilitiesSupport Work Opportunities: Supervised jobs tobuild work habits and self-reliancePre-Employment Transition Services: Careerexploration and soft skills training for youthTogether, these services help individuals lead fuller, more independent lives at work, at home, and in the community.Formerly Developmental Disability Services10,011Job Coaching Services for 216 Individuals7,340Adult Day Services for56 IndividualsKey 2024Highlights44,469Vocational Habilitation Servicesfor 298 Individuals

Goodwill has had an impact on Matt’slife socially. And it’sjust been a greatexperience. As aparent I know thatwhen he’s there he’ssafe, and valued.BEVERLY GRAVESMatt’s MomMatt came to Goodwill looking foropportunity and connectionMatt Graves started working at Goodwill in April 2007, just weeksafter the program opened. From the beginning, he brought warmth,determination, and a desire to connect with everyone who walkedthrough the door.Today, he’s more than a team member—he’s a leader and a friend.Whether he’s sorting hangers with focus or greeting local businessowners on his daily walk to work, Matt leads with heart. Hereminds us that showing up, working hard, and pushing forward—every day—can create a ripple of change.Participant StoriesEvery ChoiceCreates A RippleMatt’s mom beams with pride asshe reflects on his journey. AtGoodwill, he’s found more than ajob—he’s found confidence,connection, and purpose.ProudMomentsMATT & BEVERLY GRAVES

Ohio Valley Goodwill is a leaderin innovation and advocacy,driven by a culture where peopledon’t just come to work—theycome to make a difference.The CARF Survey Team noted: Ohio Valley Goodwill has earned a three-year accreditation from CARF—an independent organization that sets rigorous standards for quality andimpact in human services. This recognition reflects our commitment toexcellence in the following areas:Community Employment Services: Employment SupportsCommunity Employment Services: Job DevelopmentCommunity IntegrationComprehensive Vocational Evaluation Services24 Year CARF AccreditationCommission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities

Families expressed high satisfactionwith all programs.Staff are trusted to act in the bestinterest of participants.One parent shared: “They make dreamscome true for our adult children.”Title sponsor of PigAbilities, drawingrecord participation and media coverage.Strong advocacy and presence in thedisability inclusion space.Staff are known for their warmth,sincerity, and deep engagement.Communication is regular, responsive,and person-centered.Teams are described as caring, flexible,and “thinking outside the box.”CEO credited for growing the organizationtwentyfold with lasting impact.Facilities are modern, well-maintained,and managed by expert staff.VP of Rehabilitation Services praised forcounty- and state-level advocacy.Discharge summaries are detailed andoutcomes-focused.Programs are regularly and objectivelyevaluated for quality.Goodwill effectively identifies its roleamong broader community resources.Maintained most services throughvirtual support.Returned strong with relationships intactpost-pandemic.The organization is well-regarded andrespected across the region.Partnerships and collaborations arestrong and impactful.Employers praised the responsivenessof employment services staff.Many prefer to hire through Goodwilldue to reliability and service.Funders and referral sources reported highconfidence in service delivery.Staff were seen as professional and easy tocollaborate with.Areas of Strength noted included:Family ExperienceCivic EngagementStaff CommitmentLeadership & InfrastructureService ExcellencePandemic ResponseCommunity ReputationEmployer FeedbackFunder & Partner ImpressionsFor more information about the 2022 CARF survey, contactOhio Valley Goodwill Industries at (513) 771-4800.

Thank YouA Message of Gratitude from Our CEO As we reflect on a year of impact and progress, I want toexpress my deepest gratitude to the many people whomake our mission possible. To our dedicated staff—your compassion, resilience, and commitment are the heart of everything we do. You show up every day to create opportunities andchange lives. To our donors and funders—your belief in our missionensures we can continue providing critical services thathelp people build brighter, more independent futures. To our shoppers—thank you for choosing to supportOhio Valley Goodwill. Every purchase you make creates real impact. In fact, 85 cents of every dollar spent in our stores helps fundour programs, from housing and job training to disabilityand youth services. To our program participants and their families—thankyou for your trust, your strength, and your partnership.You are the reason we do this work, and we are honoredto support you on your journey. Together, we are creating sustainable communities richwith opportunities to live dignified and purposeful lives.Thank you for being part of this mission. With heartfelt appreciationTo Our Ohio Valley Goodwill Community, This model funds jobtraining, housing, andvital support—creatingsustainable communitiesrich with opportunity.Mark HiemstraMark HiemstraPresident & CEO Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries

Every small choice can create a ripple of lasting change.

www.cincinnatigoodwill.org 513.771.448010600 Springfield Pike Cincinnati, Ohio 45215@cincigoodwill