Goodwill Mythbusters
Myths about Goodwill and why they are not true.
More than 8,000 Arkansans who face employment obstacles are served annually through Goodwill’s mission-based services, including our Career Services which provides job placement assistance in 30-plus locations in Arkansas, our Reentry programs with more than 20 locations for justice-involved individuals seeking a return to society, and our Goodwill Training and Education Centers (GTEC) that serve adults looking to earn their high school diploma or obtain industry-leading credentials and certifications located in Little Rock and Springdale.
With more than 1,400 employees across the state, Goodwill Industries of Arkansas (GIA) is one of the state’s larger employers and employs many people who have come through our mission services programs and those who desire a better life for themselves. In FY24, GIA diverted more than 44 million pounds from landfills. In addition, 90 cents of every dollar spent at one of Goodwill’s 35 stores in Arkansas help fund the organization’s free services and community programs. One hundred percent of monetary donations fund mission service programs.
In North America, the network of more than 150 Goodwill organizations is the leading workforce provider, placing someone in a new job every minute of every business day. Goodwill has a nearly 120-year track record in providing services to people going through transition due to lack of education or work experience, mental or physical challenges, or being impacted by the criminal justice system. We are in the business of removing barriers from people so they may become thriving members of society and strengthen their communities as a result.
Goodwill Myth Busters
We know you want your donations to be used wisely. Below are some myths and facts about Goodwill.
What do my funds support?
Your financial gift supports Goodwill Arkansas programs that help people across our state build better futures through education, job training and employment. This includes tuition-free adult education at The Excel Center, hands-on training through The Academy at Goodwill, career coaching and job placement services, and reentry programs for individuals seeking a second chance. Your support also helps remove barriers like access to resources, guidance and support systems—so more Arkansans can gain skills, find jobs and move forward with confidence.
Can I donate online?
Yes! You can make a secure financial donation online anytime—it’s quick, easy and directly supports education, job training and employment programs across Arkansas. Prefer to donate items instead? You can also schedule a free home pickup, and we’ll come to you to collect your gently used donations at a time that works best for your schedule.
Is pickup available in my area?
Free home pickup is available in select areas across Arkansas, with availability based on your location and the type and quantity of items you’re donating. Our goal is to make donating as convenient as possible, but service areas and scheduling may vary. The best way to check is to enter your zip code when scheduling. If pickup is available in your area, you’ll be able to view open dates and times and choose what works best for you.
Will you pick up large items?
Yes! Our free home pickup service is designed for large-scale donations and items that are difficult to transport. If you have furniture, appliances, electronics or donations from multiple rooms, our team can come directly to you. This service is ideal for items that are too heavy or bulky to fit in your car or truck, making it easy to donate without the hassle.
Where can I donate E-Waste
You can donate many electronic items at your local Goodwill Arkansas donation center. We accept a wide range of electronics—whether they’re gently used or no longer needed—and give them a second life through our stores or online at ShopGoodwill.com.
Accepted items include computers (all brands and conditions), keyboards, mice, monitors, and entertainment media like CDs, DVDs, VHS tapes and video games. These donations can help provide access to technology for individuals and families who need it most.
Please note, we are unable to accept certain items such as CRT (tube) televisions, printers, photocopiers and fax machines. If you’re unsure about a specific item, check with your local store before donating.
What household items can I donate?
We accept a wide variety of gently used items, including clothing, shoes, furniture, home goods, electronics, books, toys and more. We also accept items like appliances, jewelry, sporting goods and even vehicles. All donations should be clean, in good condition and ready for reuse.
Some items we’re unable to accept include hazardous materials, mattresses, certain electronics like CRT televisions and printers, and items like car seats or bed frames.
For a complete list of accepted and non-accepted items, along with information on tax receipts and a donation valuation guide, please visit our Items to Donate page.
