How Goodwill Keystone's New Harrisburg Store Transforms Community Impact and Sustainability

Goodwill Keystone: A New Chapter in Harrisburg

Goodwill Keystone is making a positive impact in Harrisburg with the opening of its latest store and donation center, located at 5051 Hampton Court Road. The grand opening event, which took place on June 27, 2025, was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by community leaders including Senator Patty Kim and Dauphin County Commissioner Mike Pries. This event not only signals the opening of a retail space but also highlights a commitment to creating jobs and fostering sustainable practices that benefit the local community.

Creating Jobs and Supporting Economic Mobility

The new Harrisburg location has created 20 jobs, which is essential for a city reeling from economic challenges in the wake of the pandemic. Goodwill Keystone’s model emphasizes how every donation received translates directly into career training opportunities and job placements. As Edward J. Lada Jr., the organization’s president and CEO, expressed, “Every donation, every purchase helps create training, paychecks, and career pathways.” This mission aligns with Goodwill Keystone’s broader objective of building economic mobility through contributions to the workforce.

Environmental Impact and Community Benefits

Goodwill Keystone is also making strides in environmental sustainability. In just one year, they have successfully diverted over 30 million pounds of materials from being wasted in landfills, showcasing their commitment to a circular economy. By encouraging local residents to donate their gently used items—including furniture, clothing, and electronics—they are not only providing affordable options for community members but also reducing environmental waste. This raises awareness about the importance of reusing items and minimizing waste, especially in urban areas like Harrisburg.

Celebrating Community Connections

The grand opening festivities included family-friendly activities, such as a petting zoo and raffles, aiming to strengthen community ties. Events like these promote a sense of belonging and encourage families to engage not only with the store but also with one another in communal activities. Goodwill Keystone is committed to ensuring that local residents feel connected to their community and recognize the importance of their contributions, whether they be through donations or patronage.

Easy Access to Affordable Goods

The Harrisburg location spans nearly 34,000 square feet and offers a range of donated items from clothing to electronics. This variety allows families to access affordable goods and significantly enhances their ability to make budget-friendly choices. As many Pennsylvania residents continue to face financial strain, options provided by Goodwill become even more vital in helping families meet their needs without stressing their budgets further.

Local Involvement and Future Growth

The opening of this new store is just one part of a continuing narrative of growth for Goodwill Keystone, which serves 22 counties across central and southeastern Pennsylvania. As they expand their footprint, their efforts to promote economic mobility and sustainability will only amplify, ensuring more jobs and donations are handled effectively. With continuing outreach and community involvement, Goodwill Keystone is not just a business; they’re a community pillar.

The Future of Goodwill Keystone: Expanding Opportunities

Looking ahead, Goodwill Keystone plans to enhance its community impact even further by expanding services like e-waste recycling across its locations. They already process over 45 million pounds of donations annually, and with ongoing efforts, these numbers are likely to grow. This not only allows for greater reuse of donated materials but also contributes to mentoring individuals in job skills related to environmental services.

A Warm Invitation to the Community

Goodwill Keystone welcomes community members to participate in their mission. Whether it’s through donations of gently used items or visiting the new store, every action helps support the local economy and the environment. As we celebrate the ribbon-cutting event and the new store, we encourage everyone to engage in their local Goodwill’s initiatives, making a difference one donation at a time.

This new retail location represents more than just a store; it symbolizes hope, community pride, and the power of working together. Let's make the most of this opportunity!