50 years is a milestone to honor in any organization's history. It's the Golden Anniversary - a monumental time to celebrate great accomplishments, impact and longevity. In just a few short weeks, Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) will reach this golden anniversary.

GIUMSC is celebrating the occasion with a special gala on Saturday, May 6th. The formal affair is from 5pm – 11pm at the Greenville Convention Center in Greenville, SC. All are welcome. Click link for more details and to order tickets.

The gala, a Great Gatsby Retro Event, will highlight GIUMSC’s history over the last 50 years through video tributes, an awards ceremony, and testimonials from Goodwill associates and participants throughout the past half-century. Goodwill will pay tribute to its past while presenting its plans for the future. The event will showcase special moments in the non-profit's history and honor some who've helped it grow into an iconic organization that has helped put tens of thousands of South Carolinians back to work.

“It's not just about the fact we've stuck around this long. That's nice. But, we celebrate because of all those who've participated in and trusted Goodwill's cycle of generosity," said Pat Michaels, President/CEO of Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands SC. "Our loyal donors support a fun thrift shopping experience. Then, every shopper who walks out with a bag in hand is supporting Goodwill's work to offer free career services to thousands of job seekers each year. We're celebrating 50 years, because we stood together. So, we are excited to host an event where we can celebrate our past, present, and future in the same way - together."

GIUMSC has helped job seekers from all walks of life recognize their potential. Whether through a Goodwill Job Connection, Industry-Specific Training program (CNA, CDL, etc.), Mission Mobile, or other skills training and resources, Goodwill offers a hand up to even the most marginalized segments of our population. As GIUMSC's slogan says, it's about "goodwill to all."

Founded in 1973 by Lloyd Auten and a group of local businessmen, GIUMSC has seen its impact over 50 years grow from a small non-profit organization helping just over 10 people in their first year, to an iconic community partner that served over 10,000 people in 2022. GIUMSC has proven itself more than a not-for-profit by fostering material and economic stability throughout the local community.

Sponsorships are available for the event through the ticketing website. Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands SC cannot fulfill its mission and would not have made it 50 years without the generosity of a community that celebrates the “power of work."

GIUMSC also invites individuals to send in a short congratulatory video message for the 50th anniversary. Email your video clip to goodwill@goodwillsc.org by April 28, 2023.