[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 57 (Thursday, May 11, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E799]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF MID-MICHIGAN

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                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 11, 2006

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize the 
accomplishments of Goodwill Industries of Mid-Michigan as it celebrates 
its 75th anniversary of employing persons with disabilities. Goodwill 
Industries of Mid-Michigan will celebrate this milestone at a party on 
May 23 in my hometown of Flint, Michigan.
  Reverend John E. Martin, pastor of the Oak Park Methodist Church, 
brought Goodwill Industries to the Flint area in April 1931. Originally 
started as a program to assist immigrants, Goodwill Industries soon 
became a service for persons with disabilities. The focus shifted to 
employment, training and rehabilitation. The emphasis is on giving all 
persons with disabilities the dignity that comes from work and economic 
self-sufficiency.
  In the 1950s Goodwill Industries became a subcontractor for General 
Motors and other area businesses. The expanded services and training 
mandated a need for additional space, and through the generosity of 
C.S. Mott, Goodwill Industries was able to move to its present 
location. In 1986 the name was changed to Goodwill Industries of Mid-
Michigan to reflect the organization's expansion into the areas 
surrounding Flint.
  Currently serving clients in six Michigan counties, operating 11 
retail stores, a business services unit and employing over 200 workers, 
Goodwill Industries of Mid-Michigan offers rehabilitation programs 
designed to enhance interpersonal relationships, leadership 
development, vocational training and computer skills. They provide 
services to over 500 individuals while maintaining a high level of 
competence, customer satisfaction and effectiveness.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Goodwill Industries of 
Mid-Michigan as it celebrates 75 years providing efficient, 
professional assistance to persons with disabilities and the 
communities of Mid-Michigan. They are to be commended for their 
dedication to teaching every segment of our society the satisfaction 
that comes from succeeding in the workplace.

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