LAUREL, Md., Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake will cut the ribbon on its largest store and donation center in the region on Thursday, September 4, at 10 a.m. The new 22,000-square-foot flagship will employ 25 people and serve as a major hub for affordable shopping, second-chance hiring, and sustainability.

The Laurel store reflects Goodwill's growing role in Maryland's economy and community life. Sales at the organization's top nine Baltimore-area stores have increased 35 percent over the past year, with 18 percent growth among all 31 locations. The new store will not only offer shoppers more variety and expanded donation services, but will also generate revenue to fund Goodwill's mission programs, including career training, wraparound employment support, and adult education opportunities like the Baltimore Excel Center, a tuition-free high school for adults.

"In every aisle, you'll see more than affordable finds — you'll see opportunity," said Lisa Rusyniak, President & CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake. "This store is about more than secondhand shopping. It's about creating jobs, extending the life of donated goods, and making sure every purchase helps someone in Maryland get the training or education they need to thrive."

The new location is part of Goodwill's commitment to second-chance hiring, employing individuals reentering the workforce after incarceration, job loss, or career changes. Staff will receive paid training, skill development, and access to supportive services. Thousands of donated items will be processed weekly, keeping usable goods out of landfills and reducing the environmental toll of fast fashion.

Grand Opening Festivities

The opening day celebration will begin with a 10 a.m. ribbon cutting featuring Goodwill leadership and local officials. The first 50 shoppers who make a purchase will receive a complimentary Goodwill tote bag, and raffles for $25 gift cards will take place throughout the day. Visitors to the donation center will also be eligible for special giveaways, including a $25 gift card for the first car in line.

Festivities continue through the weekend with daily promotions. The first 20 shoppers in line on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will receive a mini tote with a $10 gift card. Hidden "treasure chests" will be placed around the store each day, offering chances to win prizes such as gift cards, mugs, water bottles, hats, and other Goodwill merchandise. On Sunday, Club GW loyalty members will enjoy double rewards points.

Media are invited to cover the ribbon cutting on September 4 or to schedule pre-opening tours during the week of September 2. Visual opportunities will include the ribbon cutting ceremony, shoppers exploring the store, the donation center in action, and interviews with Goodwill leadership and store employees.

Event Details

What: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting of Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake's Laurel Store & Donation Center
When: Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: 10350 Guilford Rd., Jessup, Maryland 20763
Who: Goodwill leadership, local officials, community members, and the public

Media are invited to attend the ribbon cutting or schedule a pre-opening tour during the week of September 2 for an advance look at the store, interviews with leadership and staff, and behind-the-scenes visuals of the setup.

Media Contact:

Jen Reed
On The Marc Media
(508) 944-4884
jreed@onthemarcmedia.com

About Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake

Founded in 1919, Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake is a nonprofit social enterprise that helps people overcome barriers to employment through job training, career services, and education. Revenue from Goodwill's retail stores and donation centers funds programs including CNA/GNA and pharmacy technician certifications and the Baltimore Excel Center, a tuition-free high school for adults. With 31 store locations across the region and a growing network of community services, Goodwill turns donations into jobs and second chances. Learn more at goodwillches.org.

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SOURCE Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc.