Does Goodwill Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Goodwill's Mission and Second-Chance Hiring

Goodwill Industries was founded in 1902 with the mission of providing job training and employment services to people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Today, that mission has expanded to explicitly include people with criminal records. Goodwill is not just an employer that happens to hire people with records — helping people overcome employment barriers is literally the organization's reason for existing. Each year, Goodwill serves millions of people through its network of local organizations, providing services including job training, employment placement, financial literacy programs, and career counseling. Many Goodwill locations have dedicated reentry programs that work directly with people coming out of incarceration. These programs may include transitional employment, skills training, mentoring, and connections to supportive services like housing and transportation. When you work at Goodwill, you're not just getting a job — you're joining an organization that understands your situation and actively supports your success.

How Goodwill's Background Check Works

Goodwill does conduct background checks on applicants, but the purpose is fundamentally different from how most employers use them. At most companies, a background check is a gatekeeping tool — it's used to filter people out. At Goodwill, background checks are used primarily for appropriate placement and to comply with legal requirements. This means that if your background check reveals a felony conviction, Goodwill will not automatically reject you. Instead, they'll work with you to find a position that's appropriate given your history. The main exceptions are roles that involve working with vulnerable populations (such as children or elderly individuals in Goodwill's social enterprise programs), where state law may require clean background checks. Government contract positions (such as custodial work in federal buildings) may also have additional security requirements. For the vast majority of retail, warehouse, and donation center positions, a felony record — including violent offenses — is not a barrier to employment.

Goodwill's Reentry and Job Training Programs

Beyond direct employment, many Goodwill organizations offer comprehensive reentry programs specifically designed for people with criminal records. These programs vary by location but commonly include: job readiness workshops that cover resume writing, interview skills, workplace etiquette, and how to address criminal records with employers; hard skills training in areas like forklift operation, computer literacy, customer service, and retail management; transitional employment programs that provide temporary, paid positions while you build skills and a work history; career coaching and mentoring from staff who often have lived experience with the criminal justice system; connections to community resources including housing assistance, transportation, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services; and financial literacy and budgeting workshops. To find out what programs are available in your area, visit your local Goodwill's website or call them directly. Many of these programs are free and open to the public — you don't have to be a Goodwill employee to participate.

Regional Variations

Because Goodwill operates as a network of independent local organizations, programs, pay rates, and specific hiring practices can vary from one region to another. Some Goodwill organizations are more robust than others in their reentry services. For example, Goodwill of Central and Southern Indiana has been recognized nationally for its reentry employment programs. Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake operates a comprehensive TotalLife Center model. Goodwill of Western and Northern Connecticut runs a dedicated reentry initiative. When exploring Goodwill opportunities, look specifically for your local Goodwill organization and what they offer. The national Goodwill website (goodwill.org) has a locator tool that connects you with your nearest Goodwill. Some local Goodwill organizations also partner with correctional facilities to begin job training and placement before release, so if you or someone you know is approaching release, reaching out to the local Goodwill early can be very beneficial.

Career Growth and Long-Term Potential

While Goodwill entry-level positions may not pay top wages (retail associates typically start at or slightly above minimum wage), the organization offers genuine career advancement opportunities. Goodwill promotes from within extensively, and your criminal record does not prevent you from being promoted. The typical career path might start as a donation attendant or retail associate, move to team lead or department lead, then to assistant manager and store manager. Beyond retail operations, Goodwill organizations employ people in program management, job coaching, administration, marketing, and executive roles. Some of the most impactful leaders within Goodwill organizations are people who once came through Goodwill's programs themselves. Additionally, the work experience and job training you gain at Goodwill is transferable. Many people use Goodwill as a stepping stone — building a stable work history, developing skills, and then moving on to higher-paying positions at other employers. A solid reference from a Goodwill manager carries weight with other employers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Goodwill hire felons?

Yes, absolutely. Goodwill is one of the most reliably felon-friendly employers in the country. Their mission is specifically to help people with barriers to employment — including criminal records — find work and build careers. Almost all types of felony convictions are accepted for most positions. Goodwill does conduct background checks, but they use them for appropriate placement rather than to screen people out.

Does Goodwill do background checks?

Yes, Goodwill conducts background checks on applicants. However, the purpose is fundamentally different from most employers. At Goodwill, background checks are used primarily for appropriate job placement and legal compliance, not to eliminate candidates. A felony on your record will not automatically disqualify you from employment at Goodwill.

Can I work at Goodwill with a violent felony?

In most cases, yes. Goodwill is one of the few employers that will hire people with violent felony convictions for many positions. Retail, warehouse, donation center, and processing roles are generally available. The main exception would be positions involving work with vulnerable populations (youth programs, elder care) where state law may impose restrictions. Individual Goodwill organizations may also have specific policies based on local laws.

What does Goodwill pay?

Pay varies by location and position. Retail associates and donation attendants typically start at or slightly above the local minimum wage, ranging from $10-$16 per hour depending on the region. Team leads earn $12-$18 per hour, and store managers can earn $35,000-$55,000 per year. Goodwill also often provides benefits including health insurance, paid time off, and employee discounts. While starting wages may be modest, the career advancement opportunities and supportive work environment are significant benefits.

Does Goodwill offer job training for people with records?

Yes, many Goodwill organizations offer dedicated job training and reentry programs for people with criminal records. Services commonly include resume workshops, interview coaching, skills training, career counseling, transitional employment, and connections to community resources. These programs vary by location — contact your local Goodwill to find out what's available in your area. Many programs are free and open to the public regardless of whether you're a Goodwill employee.

Can I get promoted at Goodwill with a felony?

Yes, Goodwill actively promotes from within and a criminal record does not prevent advancement. Many people start in entry-level positions and advance to team lead, manager, and even program director roles. Goodwill especially values lived experience — people who have overcome barriers themselves are often seen as the most effective coaches and leaders for others in similar situations.

Are all Goodwill locations the same?

No, Goodwill operates as a network of over 150 independent, community-based organizations. While they share the Goodwill mission and brand, each local organization has its own leadership, programs, and specific policies. This means the services, pay rates, and available programs can vary from one Goodwill to another. Use the locator at goodwill.org to find your local organization and learn about their specific offerings.

Does Goodwill drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by local Goodwill organization. Many Goodwill locations do not require pre-employment drug testing for standard retail and warehouse positions. However, positions involving driving, operating heavy equipment, or working on government contracts may require drug screening. Some local organizations may also have different policies based on their own rules or state requirements. Ask your local Goodwill about their specific drug testing policy during the application process.