Triad Goodwill Awarded Economic Development Grant to Support Workforce Development and Economic Mobility in High Point in Partnership with The Bridge
GREENSBORO, NC –Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Inc. (Triad Goodwill) is proud to announce that they have been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Capacity Building Grant from The Earl & Kathryn Congdon Family Foundation. This three-year, $90,000 investment will expand access to workforce development programming and improve employment outcomes for residents of High Point, specifically in the 27260-zip code in partnership with The Bridge of High Point.
This funding will reinforce the collaborative efforts between Triad Goodwill and The Bridge to address longstanding barriers to economic mobility in the community. “The Bridge is proud to partner with Triad Goodwill to expand opportunities for individuals and families in High Point,” says Chris Gillespie, executive director of The Bridge. “This grant strengthens our shared commitment to removing barriers and building pathways to stability and success. Together, we are creating meaningful, lasting change in our community.”
Residents in the 27260 area have experienced challenges stemming from rapid shifts in local industries and the lasting effects of historical underinvestment in infrastructure. Through this grant, both organizations aim to provide equitable access to resources, training, and career pathways that lead to sustainable employment and improved quality of life.
The Bridge, an initiative of Resilience High Point, serves as the primary partner and host site for much of Triad Goodwill’s workforce development in High Point. Designed by and for community members, The Bridge operates as a hub for connection bringing neighbors together to build relationships, share experiences, and access critical support services. Its work centers on community collaboration, youth development, and healthcare referrals, all aimed at fostering a more resilient and thriving community.
“At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening families,” said Jessica Schultz, vice president of career development services at Triad Goodwill. “This investment allows us to deepen our impact and ensure that more residents have the tools and opportunities needed to achieve long-term economic stability.”
By the conclusion of the grant period, Triad Goodwill and The Bridge aim to demonstrate measurable progress in connecting High Point residents to meaningful career opportunities. Their shared vision is to support individuals in accessing sustainable careers that enhance overall well-being and contribute to neighborhood stabilization.
About Triad Goodwill:
Triad Goodwill (Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Inc.), a 501(c)(3) non-profit leader, promotes the value of work by providing career development services, skills training, and work opportunities for people with employment needs. In the past year, Triad Goodwill served 3,053 people in the community and helped place 340 workers in competitive employment with an average job placement pay upon entry at $16.49. 85¢ of every dollar earned in Triad Goodwill stores supports their mission of Improving Lives and Enriching Communities Through the Power of Work.
About The Bridge:
The Bridge is a High Point, North Carolina-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families as they work toward stability, self-sufficiency, and long-term success. Through collaborative partnerships, resource navigation, and community-based programming, The Bridge connects people to the tools and support they need to overcome barriers and thrive. Learn more at www.thebridgenc.org.
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