San Antonio’s Resilience: The Story of Goodwill’s Foundation

News Summary

San Antonio’s journey to establish Goodwill Industries is a testament to community resilience and spirit. Starting in the late 1930s, Edgar J. Helms and local leaders encountered numerous challenges before successfully founding Goodwill in 1945. Their commitment to assisting the less fortunate, particularly during post-World War II, paved the way for the organization to flourish. Today, Goodwill San Antonio prepares to celebrate its 80th anniversary, symbolizing a legacy built on hope and mutual assistance among community members.

San Antonio’s Journey to Goodwill: A Story of Resilience and Community Spirit

San Antonio is no stranger to challenges, but the story behind the establishment of Goodwill Industries here is one of tenacity and hope. It all started back in the late 1930s when Edgar J. Helms, the ingenious mind behind the Goodwill movement, made his way to San Antonio not once, but twice! Fueled by the desire to help the less fortunate, Helms, alongside charity officials like R.C. Adair and Millard Heath, envisioned a branch that would provide a helping hand to those in need. Little did they know, this dream wouldn’t sprout initially due to several hurdles.

The Initial Attempt

In 1936, the ambitious Lucy Hill Cunningham stepped up as the manager for this budding venture. In her determination, she shared that they had even secured a truck from junk dealer Max Adler to collect donated goods from the community. This was a big deal, indicating that there was some excitement brewing!

However, despite Helms’ passionate speech at the Kiwanis Club, highlighting the importance of supporting the needy to help them become self-sufficient, things started to stall. The late 1930s were tough. The nation was still grappling with the aftermath of the Great Depression, dealing with financial instability and struggling to rally local support. As it turned out, the initial enthusiasm fizzled, leaving the Goodwill project in limbo.

A Shift in Focus

Fast forward to World War II, when the national Goodwill organization adjusted its focus to support veterans and individuals with disabilities. This change was vital as many people stepped up to work in assembly roles for war-related industries. During this period, Goodwill Industries was able to secure a substantial grant of $1 million from the national Methodist church back in 1920 designed to help establish new branches across the country.

The Rebirth of Goodwill San Antonio

The stars finally aligned in 1945 when a group of dedicated local business leaders came together to rekindle the flame of Goodwill in San Antonio. Notable figures like Roland Crutcher Jr., J.G. Kizer, Manor Labatt, and others stepped up to ensure this second attempt would not meet the same fate as the first. They rallied to raise local matching donations while seeking assistance from the national headquarters, which offered a grant of $7,500 to get things rolling.

Among key organizers was the Rev. Albert P. Shirkey of Travis Park Methodist Church. The McCreless brothers, Sealie and Sollie E. McCreless, also played vital roles, both being lifelong Methodists who contributed significantly to development in South San Antonio. With their combined efforts, they secured a building in November 1945 and soon began operations in early 1946.

A New Beginning

The re-established Goodwill San Antonio was now not just a dream but a functioning organization! They started offering employment with a daily wage of $4, employing individuals and utilizing the donations that poured in from the community. The groundwork that Lucy Hill Cunningham had laid in those earlier years proved invaluable, and it was ultimately William Sinkin who played a pivotal role in seeing the project to fruition.

Looking Ahead

As we look toward the future, it’s hard to believe that Goodwill San Antonio will proudly mark its 80th anniversary in 2025. This milestone is not just a celebration of an organization but a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that rallied together through challenges to uplift one another.

So here’s to San Antonio and the legacy of Goodwill—a shining example of resilience, community, and the power of giving back.

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Additional Resources

• KSAT News: Goodwill San Antonio Medical Assistant Program
• Wikipedia: Goodwill Industries
• Express News: San Antonio Goodwill Story
• Google Search: San Antonio Goodwill
• Dallas News: Lost Onderdonk Painting at Goodwill
• Google Scholar: Julian Onderdonk Painting
• USA Today: Roman Bust Found at Texas Goodwill
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Ancient Roman Sculpture
• San Antonio Magazine: First-Century Roman Bust
• Google News: Roman Bust San Antonio