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Goodman Community Center

We strengthen lives and secure futures – with your help!

The Goodman Center has been here for our community for nearly 70 years, and with you in our corner, we'll be around for another 70 (and then some!). We serve people ages 3 to 103 with our children and youth programs, older adult activities and meals, food pantry, fitness center, event spaces and more. Take a look around and see what we're all about, and then get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.

Community Chat with Letesha: JEDI Masters

Join Letesha and four local justice, diversity, equity and inclusion (JEDI) leaders at this special in-person Community Chat on Dec. 12 at 8am. All are welcome. Registration is appreciated but not required.

RSVP Today

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Charitable Giving Guide

There are a multitude of ways to give to nonprofits like the Goodman Community Center – so many it can be hard to keep them all straight! We've created a handy Charitable Giving Guide that you can print and keep in your records for a quick reference when you're considering the best way to give.

Download the Guide

Eastside News Cover Story

GCC has become their ‘third place’

Goodman Community Center is special to these 2 amazing teens

By Letesha Nelson, GCC chief executive officer and executive director

Ha! They may not know how it happened, but I know it is no accident that Shayla and Kiara have become more confident. Because I know the Goodman staff who have been here for them the last several years. And they’re pretty brilliant.

They always had the potential to be pretty exceptional humans, and they both come from families who want the best for them. But like every kid, having adults (other than your own parents) who see your potential, listen to you, and cheer you on as you figure out who you are and all you are capable of — that can be life changing.

Sociologists talk about our need for a “third place.” For adults, our first and second places are often home and work — for young people, home and school. And that third place is not just a place, it’s where the people you share it with give you a deep sense of belonging. Clearly, for both Kiara and Shayla, the Goodman Community Center has become their third place.

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Goodman Announces Living Wage Initiative

As of June 25, all adult staff at the Goodman Center are getting paid at least $20/hour! Goodman CEO Letesha Nelson made this announcement on July 18. She said, "It's time to take care of the people who take care of our community."

Read Letesha's Letter

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES

Phone Pals: Chat with a Goodman Volunteer

Dec 6, 2023

Chat about anything, and make a new connection.

Older Adults

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Goodman Menders: A Free Mending Service (Wednesdays)

Dec 6, 2023
5:30 pm–7:30 pm

Get your fabrics fixed by a group of talented volunteers!

Community

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Phone Pals: Chat with a Goodman Volunteer

Dec 7, 2023

Chat about anything, and make a new connection.

Older Adults

Learn More

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Host Your Event with Us!

Large or small, casual or dressed up – our hospitality team is ready to help you make your event one to remember.

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Better Together

Our community is at its best when we stick together.

Make a Gift to Goodman

The Latest Goodman News

Suter's Gold Medal Sports was founded by Madison hockey legend Bob Suter, an Olympic gold medal winner in 1980.

Suter’s Gold Medal Sports continues to assist Madison-area skaters

December 5, 2023

Suter’s Gold Medal Sports has been selling hockey equipment and sharpening skates for 43 years.

Eastside News Stories, Neighborhood News

Read Story

Let's Cook Thai Butternut Squash with Curry and Chickpeas Together

November 30, 2023

Another delicious recipe and cooking class with UW Med School students.

Older Adults

Read Story

For more information about the Goodman Community Center, or if you just want to get in touch, contact:

Letesha Nelson

CEO/Executive Director
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