We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shay Gipson. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Shay, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One of the biggest misconceptions about Goodwill is that we’re just a thrift store. While our stores are the most visible part of our organization, they’re really just the engine that powers our larger mission: helping people in our community overcome barriers to employment. Every item donated and every purchase made supports job training, education, career placement, and other critical services for individuals who might otherwise be overlooked – people with disabilities, veterans, those experiencing homelessness, at-risk youth, the formerly incarcerated and more. Our impact goes far beyond retail; we’re a social enterprise with a mission to change lives.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
At Goodwill North Central Texas, we like to say that we’re more than a thrift store, we’re a mission in motion. Our retail stores and donation centers are a vital part of what we do, but they serve a greater purpose – funding life-changing programs and services for people in our community who face barriers to employment. Every purchase and every donation helps support workforce development, job training, and social services for thousands of individuals each year.
One program we’re especially proud of is our S.T.A.R.S. program (Skills Training Achieves Results), which provides a supportive environment for individuals with disabilities to develop life skills, gain pre-vocational training, and build confidence. It’s just one example of how Goodwill goes beyond retail to create opportunities and change lives every day.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
For us at Goodwill North Central Texas, the moments that shape our worldview happen every day, but one that stands out is seeing someone who came to us with barriers – whether it’s a disability, justice involvement or homelessness, walk across the stage at a graduation ceremony or land a job they never thought possible. Those moments are powerful reminders that with the right support, people can overcome enormous challenges. It reinforces our belief that everyone deserves a second chance and that dignity and purpose come through work. It’s why we do what we do.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
At Goodwill North Central Texas, listening is one of the most powerful tools we have, not just to understand community needs, but to create meaningful solutions. A great example of this is how our Adult Education and Literacy programs evolved over time.
It started with E-Squared (Education and Employment), a program for youth ages 16–24 who were out of school and needed both their GED and paid work experience. But then, we began hearing from adults 25 and older who also wanted a second chance at education – many balancing families or jobs and needing more flexibility and optional work experience. That’s how A-Squared (Advancement and Achievement) was born.
Later, we recognized another need: individuals who needed more foundational support with reading, writing, or English language skills before they could succeed in either program. So we created L-Squared (Language and Learning) to meet them where they are.
Each of these programs exists because we took the time to listen—and responded with care, flexibility, and action.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
One cultural value we protect fiercely at Goodwill North Central Texas is belonging. Being part of the Goodwill family means creating an environment where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued no matter their background or barriers. Whether it’s a team member, a program participant or someone shopping in our stores, we strive to make every interaction rooted in respect and purpose. Belonging isn’t just something we talk about, it’s something we live out in every part of our mission.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
We understand deeply that work is more than just a paycheck, it’s dignity, purpose and the foundation for a better life. Most people don’t realize how many barriers someone can face when trying to find employment such as lack of education, a disability, justice involvement or simply not having access to transportation or childcare. At Goodwill North Central Texas, we see the complexity behind unemployment every day, and we work to meet people where they are with the resources, training and support they need to move forward. It’s not just about jobs, it’s about restoring hope and building opportunity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.goodwillnorthcentraltexas.org
- Instagram: @goodwillnct
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodwillnct
- Twitter: @goodwillnct
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodwillnct
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@goodwillnct
Image Credits
Goodwill Industries International
