Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana is strengthening its commitment to community health and safety by working with the American Heart Association, resulting in the installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) across its retail locations.
Through grant funding provided in collaboration with the Heart Association, Goodwill is in the process of equipping all nine of its retail stores with AEDs. Six units have already been installed, with those locations strategically selected based on longer emergency response times to ensure faster access to life-saving equipment when it matters most.
In addition to installing the devices, Goodwill is taking a comprehensive approach to preparedness by training team members across the organization on proper AED use. Associates who complete the training receive certification pins to display on their lanyards, signaling their readiness to respond in emergency situations.
“Ensuring our team members are fully trained and confident in using AEDs is a critical part of this initiative,” said Marita Crawfis, COO & senior vice president at Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana. “We are committed to equipping our entire team with the knowledge and skills needed to act quickly and effectively in a cardiac emergency. This training not only supports safety within our stores but also strengthens our ability to serve the broader community.”
Local emergency services have also been notified of each AED’s placement, allowing the devices to serve Goodwill locations as well as neighboring businesses and community members.
This initiative reflects Goodwill’s broader mission to serve as more than a retail operation. While the organization’s core purpose remains the collection and resale of donated goods to fund job training and placement services for individuals facing barriers to employment, Goodwill continues to expand its role as a proactive community partner.
“At Goodwill, we believe being part of the community means actively investing in its well-being,” said Kevin Morse, CEO of Goodwill Industries of Northeast Indiana. “This partnership with the American Heart Association allows us to extend that commitment in a meaningful way by helping ensure life-saving resources are accessible throughout our community. We’re grateful to the AHA for their support and shared vision of creating safer, healthier spaces for everyone.”
As part of the ongoing partnership, the American Heart Association will also install a public blood pressure monitoring station at Goodwill’s flagship location at 3127 Brooklyn Avenue in Fort Wayne. “High blood pressure can lead to more serious health issues like heart disease and stroke, however, those health issues can be avoided if you manage your blood pressure,” said Mindy Hartwick, executive director for the American Heart Association – Ft. Wayne. “We are so excited to work with Goodwill and provide these community resources to its residents to live longer and healthier lives.”
Additional AED installations are planned at Goodwill’s Brooklyn Avenue, Covington, ShopGoodwill, and Angola locations, completing the organization’s goal of full coverage across all its retail sites.
