Goodwill Industries of Michiana broke ground on a new Neighborhood Opportunity Hub on April 10 in Elkhart.
Half of the 109,000-square-foot former Sears building at 154 W. Hively Ave. will be used for an Excel Center, The Academy and the Nurse-Family Partnership program.
“Elkhart’s Excel Center has been rapidly growing, and this expansion will enable us to serve even more students,” said Debie Coble, president and chief executive officer of Goodwill Industries, in a press release. “We’re thrilled to help enhance the quality of life, social services and economic opportunities in the neighborhood.”
Sears closed its store in 2017, which left the building vacant. City of Elkhart officials partnered with Goodwill to make use of the space, along with Heart City Health. The deal was part of the city’s economic development diversification plan.
“Goodwill’s mission is to empower people to achieve their most abundant lives, and we’re grateful to be a partner in building a stronger community,” Coble said.
The Excel Center will provide high school instruction for adults; while The Academy offers career and technical education. The Nurse-Family Partnership program pairs first-time parents with nurses and other workforce development services. The space also will include medical, urgent care, dental, mental and behavioral health care services.
Goodwill Industries of Michiana serves 16 Indiana counties and operates 24 stores.
