Goodwill Day on the Hill 2025: Advocacy in Action

Goodwill Industries of Kansas recently joined fellow Goodwill organizations from across the country in Washington, D.C. for Goodwill on the Hill 2025, an annual event dedicated to sharing the powerful impact of Goodwill programs with members of Congress and their staff. This year’s advocacy efforts focused on workforce development, tax policy, and sustainability through textile recycling.

Our team included Laura Ritterbush, President & CEO, Chris Stanyer, Chief Mission Officer, and Re-Entry Specialist Rikki Cafferty. They spoke directly with elected officials about the transformative work in Kansas.

Rikki’s story was especially impactful. After overcoming addiction, incarceration, and immense personal struggles, she found hope and a future through Goodwill’s Re-Entry Program. Now a full-time employee and nearing completion of her Bachelor of Social Work, Rikki continues to uplift others facing similar barriers.

Sharing my story was an emotional and empowering experience. For so long, I felt like my past defined me, but that day I got to define myself. I am no longer a statistic, I am a success story. Goodwill was a turning point in my journey. At a time when I needed both opportunity and support, they offered more than just a job or service. They offered belief in my potential. Today, because of the support, I am employed at Goodwill Industries of Kansas, focused and building a future I am proud of. – Rikki Cafferty, Re-Entry Specialist

This year, 126 representatives from local Goodwill organizations held 282 meetings with congressional leaders. These face-to-face conversations are critical for strengthening relationships and ensuring continued support for Goodwill’s mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities through the power of work.