EC Wisconsin News

Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) is acknowledging National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month this March by highlighting the contributions and talents of workers with disabilities in American workplaces. The organization is part of a larger international Goodwill movement and offers employment services aimed at helping individuals of all abilities enhance their skills, secure jobs, and achieve financial stability.

"Goodwill NCW celebrates the ways in which people with and without disabilities come together to form strong, diverse communities," said Kayla Countney, Manager of Mission Relations. "We are proud to serve all those who face barriers to employment and celebrate inclusion for people of all abilities in the communities we serve."

In 2024, Goodwill NCW reported that 69% of individuals who found meaningful employment through its programs had at least one disability. These programs aim to tackle the 8.5% unemployment rate among people with disabilities as recorded by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics in January 2025. Participants with disabilities who received assistance from Goodwill NCW saw a collective annual income increase exceeding $1.6 million, contributing to greater financial security and reducing poverty rates.

Goodwill NCW encourages north central Wisconsin residents to support National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by engaging with local initiatives. Employers can partner with Goodwill NCW for job-skills training and employment placement services. Ben's story serves as an example of successful collaboration between Goodwill NCW and local businesses.

The community can also contribute by shopping or donating at local Goodwill NCW stores, where about 90 cents from every dollar spent is reinvested into these mission-driven programs.