The Chattanooga Goodwill in East Brainerd will celebrate its grand reopening after the 2020 Easter EF3 tornado destroyed the store.
Much more than a store reopening, this event is a testament to the tireless work of a team determined to triumph over two devastating blows in 2020 - first the Pandemic and then an EF3 tornado, said officials.
The donated goods retail program at 7601 East Brainerd Road was Goodwill’s busiest location, drawing shoppers from across the region. Revenue from the sale of goods at this store, as well as Goodwill’s 16 other locations, all stays local and funds employment and training programs that help people in the community overcome barriers to advance their careers. Belief in the importance of its mission, dating back nearly 100 years, was the driving force behind the Goodwill team’s perseverance according to President and CEO Gena Weldon.
The organization is excited to reopen with an enhanced shopping experience, back-of-the house process improvements, and room for a new Job Connection Center.
The grand reopening will be Thursday, April 8, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. The store opens to the public on Friday, April 9, at 9 a.m.