Founded for the sole purpose of helping people help themselves and managed not as a charity but as a chance to achieve self-sufficiency, Katherine B. Higgins started what is today Goodwill Industries of Southern California (GISC) near the plaza of the old Pueblo in Los Angeles in 1916.

The plaza, known today as Olvera Street, was home to many Latinos who lived in deplorable conditions. Goodwill started its mission by collecting donated items through the distribution of empty burlap sacks to students, businessmen and others who wanted to help. The garments were repaired by people who were unemployed and sold at very low prices. The repair shop become known as Goodwill Industries.

Today, Goodwill assists more than 3,000 people each year with educational and vocational training and job placement services.

For more on the History of Goodwill, visit the Goodwill Museum!