Seeing the Mission in Action: Why Site Visits Matter

By Laura Walling, Vice President of Government Affairs, Goodwill Industries International, Inc.

August recess is one of the best times of the year to engage policymakers. As Members of Congress return home to meet with constituents, Goodwill organizations have a unique opportunity to showcase their impact firsthand.

While policy discussions are important, nothing is more powerful than seeing the mission in action. Whether it’s a store opening, program launch, graduation ceremony, hiring event, or career center tour, site visits allow elected officials to experience Goodwill’s work beyond the headlines and statistics.

During a visit, policymakers can meet program participants, hear success stories, connect with shoppers and donors, and see how donated goods fuel workforce programs that strengthen local communities. They can also hear directly from employers, community leaders, and workforce partners about the critical role Goodwill plays in helping people gain skills, find employment, and advance toward economic mobility.

These firsthand experiences help build understanding, strengthen relationships, and create lasting advocates for policies and investments that expand opportunity.

As Congress spends August in their districts and states, we hope federal, state, and local policymakers will accept invitations to visit. Opening our doors and sharing our story is one of the most effective ways to demonstrate Goodwill’s impact and ensure decision-makers understand the value we bring to communities every day.

When policymakers see Goodwill’s mission in action, they don’t just learn about our work, they experience its impact.