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Together, we prepare people for work.

INTRODUCTION

HISTORY OF GOODWILL-EASTER SEALS

In 1902, Dr. Edgar Helms, a Methodist minister, founded the first Goodwill in Boston. He started a
program to give people with disabilities and disadvantages “not charity, but a chance.” Helms believed
the mission of Goodwill Industries was to help people in need to develop their abilities, increase their
self-respect, and attain economic independence. Under this program, collected used materials from
residents and individuals were trained to repair and restore the materials to be sold at affordable prices.
This basic model and mission have remained at the heart of what we do since beginning in Minnesota in
1919. Throughout a century of tremendous change — including multiple wars, recessions, and
technology-driven progress — our retail operation has enabled us to pursue our vision of creating a
world where everyone experiences the power of work.

The origins of the National Easter Seals Society were prompted by Dr. Edgar F. Allen’s son's death in
1907, following a streetcar accident. Recognizing the need to provide adequate medical services for
children and adults with disabilities, he began raising money, “simply for the right to live a normal life.”

We joined Easter Seals in 1984 and changed our name to Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota. The merger
enabled us to tap into both national organizations' resources, offering job training, placement, and
related services.

No matter what you do at GESMN, you are part of a team working to eliminate barriers to work and
independence. Together, we prepare people for work.

GOODWILL-EASTER SEALS’ MISSION

Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota mission is to eliminate barriers to work and independence. We prepare
people for work and accomplish this mission by providing quality programs and services tailored to
address individuals and their communities' needs. Our services are funded through store sales,
individual gifts, contracts, and fees for services, grants, and partnerships with foundations, corporations,
and government entities.

INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY

We believe good working relationships are essential to strengthen and promote both Goodwill-Easter
Seals and its employees' interests. Good working relationships consist of direct and open
communication, mutually understood goals, and mutual respect.

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