In a significant development for the Killeen community, the Heart of Texas Goodwill is set to expand its footprint with the construction of a new retail and job training center. Slated to begin on January 1, 2024, and expected to be completed by January 1, 2025, this project represents a $6.5 million investment in the local economy.
Located at 4901 W Stan Schlueter Loop in Killeen, TX, the new facility will span a considerable 22,370 square feet. It is designed to serve multiple purposes, including retail space, a job connection center, and a drop-off location for donations. The project will also encompass the development of a parking lot and site infrastructure, enhancing the overall utility and accessibility of the center.
Heart of Texas Goodwill, with a history dating back to 1955 in Waco, has long been committed to the philosophy that the power of work can change lives. The organization’s roots trace back to 1902 when Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister, initiated a movement in Boston’s South End. His innovative approach involved collecting unwanted items, restoring them through the work of the poor, and reselling them. This model not only provided employment and skills training but also instilled a sense of dignity and independence in individuals.
Over the years, Heart of Texas Goodwill has expanded its mission, continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves. As of now, the organization operates across 20 counties with 12 retail stores and donation centers, 2 outlet stores, and 3 alternate donation centers. Additionally, it runs 4 Job Connections in Waco, Temple, Killeen, and Bryan. In 2021 alone, these centers assisted 2,655 individuals, and successfully placed 213 job seekers into employment.
The new Killeen Retail and Job Training Center is more than just a building; it symbolizes a commitment to the community’s economic and social well-being. By providing vocational training and employment opportunities, the center is poised to be a beacon of hope and progress. This project is not just an investment in infrastructure but an investment in the people of Killeen, echoing Edgar J. Helms’ vision of empowering lives through work.
Residents of Bell County and beyond can look forward to the opening of this facility, which promises to be a pivotal addition to the region’s social and economic landscape.
Image credit: Heart of Texas Goodwill
Texas Reporter 