Goodwill Industries of the Columbia Willamette (GICW) instructors provided over 40,000 hours of free skills training and educational services to employees and community members throughout NW & Central Oregon and SW Washington in 2025. That’s the equivalent of four years’ worth of classes! Plus, Goodwill’s Employment Specialists held hiring events and job fairs, ultimately connecting local folks to more than 9,000 jobs at companies like ilani Casino Resort and Costco.
GICW staff is able to offer these services at no cost thanks to the support of its generous donors and loyal shoppers, and they aim to continue providing meaningful connections and community engagement when their new Ridgefield location opens on Sept. 3. With more than 40 employees working in the 11,000-plus square feet of retail space and Job Connection facility, along with a rotating group of Career Center instructors, they look forward to partnering with community members who wish to enhance their personal and professional skills.
The public is invited to join GICW staff on Thursday, Sept. 3 for the Grand Opening celebration and ribbon cutting with Ridgefield Mayor Matt Cole and various city council & chamber members. Goodwill’s Vocational Services Director, David Miller, will be onsite to share more about Goodwill’s mission and the wide range of free services they provide.
In addition to the special guests in attendance, there will be a DJ onsite for entertainment and complimentary coffee & pastries for all the folks lined up to be the first to enter. Plus, daily drawings for $100 Goodwill gift cards throughout the grand opening weekend!
Date: Thursday, Sept. 3
Time: 8 a.m. Ribbon Cutting with Ridgefield Mayor Matt Cole
Address: 121 S. 65th Avenue
