People of Progress has been struggling to continue providing safety net and connectivity services to the community. In the last five years, government grants decreased by 75% and their thrift store income decreased by 54%. Despite increasing support from private donors, churches, businesses and regional foundations; and despite repeatedly reorganizing and downsizing to minimal staff levels — their future was bleak and uncertain.
This situation did not go unnoticed. Goodwill Industries of Sacramento Valley & Northern Nevada stepped up to provide major assistance ensuring that their services will continue to help over 10,000 people each year.
Goodwill first pledged a 100% match for POP’s 2014 spring fund drive. This resulted in the largest response ever; $6,000+ was donated bringing the total with the Goodwill match to over $12,000.
Then, Goodwill analyzed POP’s thrift store and has adopted it. This new alliance brings in expertise and resources which has turned People of Progress’ income around.
With Goodwill’s help, combined with continued community support, POP is stronger and able to continue their efforts to meet the needs of the community in the coming years.
Melinda Brown, POP Executive Director notes that, “The People of Progress Board of Directors and staff look forward to this partnership and to where it will lead both organizations in the future. And as we stabilize, we will look at ways to expand our services. POP’s long stated mission is changing lives and strengthening our community in a spirit of goodwill.
Goodwill mission parallel’s ours and now we are on this path together.”
Goodwill’s CEO Joe Mendez states that, “People of Progress’ services are essential to Shasta County and their store is pretty unusual. Unlike most nonprofit thrift stores, the POP store is integral to the organization’s actual survival, not just raising additional funds for certain programs. In addition, clients receive thousands of clothing items directly from store inventory.”
“We know that the survival of POP’s services is vitally important to the community and we are excited to enter into this relationship. It’s a new role for Goodwill, however, both of our organizations’ missions are to serve people facing barriers. This is a good fit.”
