Go Fredericksburg

Rappahannock Goodwill, a nonprofit charitable and social service organization, was recently honored as the Large Business of the Year by the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes their outstanding business practices and active involvement in the community. The recognition was bestowed at the 32nd annual awards and gala, attended by over 550 guests. Steve Cox, the president and CEO of Rappahannock Goodwill, expressed their gratitude upon receiving the accolade. Cox acknowledged the hard work and dedication of their employees and the unwavering support of the community as key factors contributing to this achievement. For close to six decades, Rappahannock Goodwill has been positively impacting lives through their job programs and various initiatives aimed at providing emergency aid and promoting a cleaner environment. Each month, their program assists nearly 600 individuals, and in 2022 alone, they successfully placed around 1,500 people in new jobs, offering an average wage of over $20 per hour. Their services, which are offered free of charge, encompass a wide range of support, including resume writing, interview skills training, and job placement. They also assist individuals in accessing tuition grants for certifications in high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, early childhood education, manufacturing, and public safety. Furthermore, Rappahannock Goodwill actively contributes to job creation by providing employment opportunities in their stores, donation centers, and various operations, including custodial services for the FBI Academy at Quantico. Cox emphasized that the positive effects of their mission extend beyond the individuals they serve. As people find stability and purpose in their work, they become valuable contributors to society, role models for their families, and agents of change within their communities. Interested individuals can access the jobs program online or visit the Virginia Career Works centers in Fredericksburg, Culpeper, and Orange for assistance. Emergency situations are also addressed through Rappahannock Goodwill's voucher program, which provides aid to people in need. Beneficiaries of this program include local students and their families, the homeless, and those actively seeking employment. The administration of the voucher program is facilitated through local community service organizations. Cox emphasized that this kind of assistance not only helps individuals directly but also has a positive impact on the community as a whole. Rappahannock Goodwill also leads in environmental responsibility through their stores and donation centers. By recycling donated goods, they diverted almost 8 million pounds of clothing and other items from ending up in landfills last year alone. Their custodial programs, such as the one at the FBI Academy, not only provide employment opportunities but have also earned the highest certification for sustainable green cleaning practices. Donations to Rappahannock Goodwill have a broad-reaching impact. By clearing space in their own lives through donations, people can contribute to the well-being of the community. Clothing and gently used items can be dropped off at nearby donation centers, while arrangements can be made for in-home pickups of furniture, vehicles, or other large items. Additionally, Goodwill's 15 local stores and online store offer great finds and bargain prices. Cox emphasized that every achievement of Rappahannock Goodwill is made possible by the support of individuals who donate and shop at their establishments. The simple act of generosity plays a crucial role in promoting community well-being, sustainability, and empowering individuals to achieve self-sufficiency.