Goodwill drives $638M economic impact in South Carolina

Shoppers looking for $2 T-shirt deals are taking part in an economy worth more than $600 million in South Carolina in 2024.

Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina and Palmetto Goodwill are sharing the full Economic Impact Study first announced on the State House steps earlier in March. The independent research study revealed Goodwill’s services generated an estimated $638 million toward South Carolina’s economy in 2024.

The full Economic Impact Study found here (pdf) was conducted by the University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business.

The study sought to measure how the non-profit’s career services and training programs — which help place 10,000 people into meaningful employment each year and strategically support growing industries — are stimulating the state’s economy.

South Carolina Senators Deon Tedder (D-Charleston) and Ross Turner (R-Greenville) spoke at the press conference, recognizing Goodwill’s impact and the expanded workforce opportunities for the Palmetto State.

“Goodwill’s economic impact speaks for itself,” said Tedder. “With an overall $638 million impact, Goodwill is a vital driver of South Carolina’s economy. Even more powerful, its ability to transform lives through the dignity, purpose, and opportunity of work — an impact that cannot be fully quantified. As a state senator, my commitment is to expand workforce development opportunities across our state, and Goodwill has proven to be an indispensable partner in that mission. I am proud that Palmetto Goodwill‘s headquarters is located in District 42, and I look forward to continuing our partnership as we work together to improve the lives of people throughout the Palmetto State.”

Turner said he has seen the results in his District 8, where Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina is headquartered.

“Goodwill is a tremendous asset to the state of South Carolina,” he said in a news release.  “An economic impact exceeding $638 million is significant, and it reflects the organization’s ability to deliver real results. … I have seen firsthand the organization’s daily commitment to connecting our citizens with meaningful employment opportunities across the state — and their consistent ability to follow through on their promises. I made a commitment long ago to bring innovative, cutting-edge jobs to District 8, and Goodwill is a strong partner in that effort. We are delivering on that vision, and this economic impact study confirms it. I am excited about the future as we continue working together to connect motivated individuals with the best and brightest opportunities available.”

The two Goodwills headquartered in South Carolina serve a combined 35 of the state’s 46 counties. Together, the organizations represent the largest workforce training provider in the state, delivering comprehensive career services to 23,000 South Carolinians in 2024. Goodwill accomplished this, in part, by focusing training curriculums and resources on four focus areas — health care, skilled trades, micro-enterprise and entrepreneurship, and reentry.