Goodwill of Middle Georgia will celebrate Founders Week, January 18–24, honoring the legacy of its founder, Edgar J. Helms, and highlighting how his vision continues to create opportunity through education and career services across Middle Georgia.

Helms, a Methodist minister born January 19, 1863, founded Goodwill on the belief that people need opportunity more than charity. His model — turning donated goods into work, training and education — created pathways to dignity and self-sufficiency and remains the foundation of Goodwill’s mission today.

“Edgar Helms believed in meeting real needs with practical solutions,” said James K. Stiff, President of Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia. “He understood that work builds dignity and that education opens doors. Founders Week gives us a moment to honor the legacy of Rev. Edgar James Helms, who is the namesake of Helms College.”

Helms’ birthday on January 19 anchors Founders Week and serves as a reminder that his vision was never about short-term relief, but lasting change. By transforming donated goods into job training and education, Goodwill continues to help individuals build skills, confidence and career pathways.

Founders Week is observed near Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a timing Goodwill leaders say is meaningful. While the focus remains on Helms’ legacy, both men emphasized dignity, opportunity and work as essential to building stronger communities.

The observance comes as many Middle Georgia communities continue to face workforce challenges. Goodwill of Middle Georgia addresses those needs through free career services, hands-on education at Helms College, and partnerships with local employers.

Founders Week activities in Middle Georgia include:

Goodwill Retail Stores

• Jan. 19 at 3 p.m.: Select Augusta-area Goodwill stores will host a dessert celebration honoring Helms’ birthday, while supplies last

• Jan. 20–22: Donors receive a $5 off $25 coupon with a donation at participating locations

• Jan. 23: Stores will offer a $1.63 pants special, marking the 163rd anniversary of Helms’ birth

Goodwill Job Connection Career Centers

Goodwill Job Connection Career Centers across the region offer free résumé assistance, interview preparation, career coaching and job search support.

Helms College

The Macon campus of Helms College will recognize Helms’ legacy through student and classroom engagement and will welcome community members interested in learning more about education and career opportunities. The Helms College Welcome Center will be open Monday–Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Goodwill leaders say Founders Week is not simply a celebration of history, but a recommitment to Helms’ vision.

“We honor Edgar Helms best by continuing his work,” Stiff said. “We are deeply grateful to our donors, shoppers, and community partners who make it possible to turn generosity into education, and education into opportunity.”

Goodwill of Middle Georgia invites media and community members to engage with Founders Week activities and explore how Helms’ legacy continues to build lives, families, and communities across the region.