Goodwill's Big Streetsboro Move: From Aldi to Awesome!
So, you know how sometimes a closed-down building feels like a lost opportunity? Well, not in Streetsboro, Ohio! Goodwill Industries of Akron just pulled off something pretty amazing. After 20 years of renting space, they’ve bought their own building—the old Aldi on State Route 14. It's a total game-changer for the community.
A New Life for an Old Aldi
That Aldi store, the one that closed down in January 2025 after a newer one opened up the road? Yep, that one. Goodwill snapped it up! It’s their second property acquisition in the area, and it means they can finally bring all their Streetsboro operations under one roof. They're moving from their current spot in Streetsboro Plaza. Think of it as a major upgrade—bigger space, better everything!
Honestly, who knew a former grocery store could be so useful? It's quite the transformation, and I think it's really cool how they're repurposing a space that would have otherwise sat empty.
More Than Just Shopping: A Community Hub
This isn't just a bigger store; it's a whole community center in the making! We're talking a massive 10,000-square-foot retail space, plus a huge area for storing all those donated goodies. And get this—they're adding a drive-up donation area, just like the one in Kent-Ravenna. Making donations easier? Genius!
But it gets even better. They’re building a community room with job search stations and it’ll even be used for Goodwill's Work Experience Program. This is huge for local job seekers—offering training and support all in one place. It really speaks volumes about their commitment to the community.
Growth and Opportunity in Portage County
Laura Walker, the vice president of mission services, put it perfectly: this new location will let them "serve the community to a greater extent." Goodwill operates 15 stores across five counties, but Streetsboro and Kent/Ravenna are the only ones in Portage County. This expansion is a big deal, showing their dedication to the area.
They’re still in the early stages of renovations, but they’re aiming for a summer 2025 opening. I can't wait to see the finished product. It's going to be really beneficial for the Streetsboro community.
More Than Just Bricks and Mortar
This whole thing is more than just Goodwill moving to a new building; it's a statement. It shows their commitment to supporting Streetsboro’s growth and providing much-needed services. The larger space, the extra services—it’s all about making a positive impact on people's lives. And that’s something truly special.
