What It’s Like to Work at Goodwill
Written by Hailey Carman, Talent Acquisition Specialist
I’ve been with Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin (SCWI) for a little over six months now. And while that might not sound like a long time, it’s been more than enough time to see the good we do every single day, both out in the community and within our own walls.
As a Talent Acquisition Specialist, I get the unique opportunity to work with people across the entire organization. That means retail teams, mission services, home office departments, leadership, and just about everyone in between. I get a behind-the-scenes look at how all the moving parts connect, and more importantly, how much heart goes into the work at every level.
If you’re here looking for a blog about how great the benefits are (they are) or how fast PTO adds up (lightning speed), this probably isn’t the article for you. Those things matter, of course, but this is the real scoop on what it’s actually like to work here day to day; the culture, the purpose, and the people that make it what it is.
There’s Always a Goal… And It Actually Means Something
No matter what role you play at Goodwill SCWI, there’s always a goal to focus on. Sometimes that goal is hitting retail production numbers so our shoppers have the best products available and our stores can continue funding mission services. Sometimes it’s learning all the words to “Jingle Bells” so our Supported Employment participants have the best day ever while caroling around our home office. And sometimes, it’s sitting down with your manager to map out a growth plan and work toward that next step in your career.
What makes those goals different here is that they’re never just about checking a box or hitting a number for the sake of it. They’re about progress. Progress for the organization, progress for the community, and progress for you as an individual. There’s a clear understanding that when employees grow, the mission grows too.
I’ve personally felt that balance in my own role. I’m encouraged to think about what’s next for me, to speak up about ideas, and to take ownership of my development. At the same time, I know that the work I’m doing, which is to help connect people to meaningful employment, has a ripple effect that goes far beyond my desk. That combination gives my work a real sense of purpose, and that’s not something every workplace can offer.
Community Includes You!
Our mission is to help people in our community live, work, and thrive, and we do that in a lot of different ways. It’s easy to assume that mission only applies to the people we serve outside of the organization, but here’s the thing: when we say “community,” employees are absolutely included.
From my very first day, it was clear that you don’t have to choose between helping others and growing your career. You can do both, and you’re encouraged to do both. There’s a genuine investment in people here, not just in what they do, but in who they are and where they want to go.
Opportunities to learn, develop new skills, and collaborate with a diverse group of people are everywhere. Whether it’s training, exploring your own strengths, or simply learning from coworkers who are always willing to share their knowledge, growth is part of the culture. Support is real, feedback is constructive, and your success actually matters to the people around you.
It’s refreshing to work somewhere that doesn’t treat employees as just roles or headcount. You’re seen as a whole person, and that makes a difference. A difference not just in morale, but in how people show up every day.
Little Moments That Make It Different
What really sets Goodwill SCWI apart isn’t just the big wins or the headline-worthy mission moments; it’s the everyday stuff. It’s the conversations in the hallway that turn into brainstorming sessions. It’s the check-ins that go beyond “How’s work?” It’s the celebrations that don’t feel forced and the recognition that feels sincere.
It’s also the way people show up for each other on busy or tough days. When things get hectic (because they do, and they will), there’s a sense that you’re not facing it alone. People step in, lend a hand, offer encouragement, or just listen when you need it. There’s a shared understanding that we’re all working toward the same bigger picture.
That kind of culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through trust, respect, and a shared commitment to both the mission and each other. And honestly, it’s what makes even the hardest days more manageable.
Is it perfect? No workplace is. There are challenges, growing pains, and moments where things don’t go exactly as planned. But it’s real. It’s human. And it’s a place where you can feel good about the work you’re doing and the people you’re doing it with.
So, What’s It Really Like?
Working at Goodwill SCWI means being part of something bigger than yourself, while still being supported as an individual. It means setting goals that matter, working alongside people who care, and knowing that the work you do (no matter your role) has a real impact on lives in our community.
It means feeling connected to a mission, while also feeling valued as an employee. It means growth, purpose, and a sense of belonging that goes beyond a job description.
Six months in, I’m proud to be here. I’m proud of the people I work with, the mission we serve, and the impact we make every day. And if you’re looking for a workplace where purpose and people truly come first, this might just be the place for you.
Are You Ready to Join Our Team?
Whether your strengths are in retail, mission services, administration, or leadership, there’s a place for you here. We’re always looking for passionate, caring people to join our team. Visit the button below to explore career opportunities.