The bell above the door jingles as it opens and the faint smell of worn leather and something vaguely like pinewood permeates the space. The lighting is soft, glazing over the rows of secondhand clothes and knick-knacks. The sound of muffled chatter and the soft shuffle of feet comforted the smiles of the employees; customers can almost feel the history here—each item a relic, a forgotten treasure, waiting to be rediscovered. The thrill of the hunt is here, just beneath the surface of the shelves, in the promise of something unexpected, a perfect find buried beneath layers of time. 

This is the experience presented by Goodwill North Central Texas. However, the impact that shopping here has on the community is much greater than it seems. President and CEO David Cox `94 and Vice President of Community Engagement Shay Gipson `05’ are sharing the truth of Goodwill and its message far and wide. 

Cox developed his sense of wanting to serve his community as a Texas Wesleyan University student with the Baptist Student Union and volunteer opportunities. It helped him develop a sense of wanting to serve and give back, only working in non-profits since graduating. “It helped me find myself,” said Cox. “The quality of the education being right here in Fort Worth is of great financial value." 

Both alumni have served on various boards of many non-profits and organizations such as Longhorn Council, BSA, Harvest Christian Academy School Board, Davey O'Brien Foundation Board of Trustees, the Housing Opportunities Foundation Board of Directors and the Junior League of Fort Worth Board of Directors. It has become a part of their daily lives. “I made up my mind here, deciding I wanted to live a life dedicated to serving others. Goodwill and Texas Wesleyan afforded me that opportunity,” said Gipson.  

Goodwill’s mission is to empower people in the community through employment. They serve five diverse groups: people with disabilities, those coming out of the justice system, those facing homelessness, youth and veterans. They have 26 individual programs helping these groups. In fact, according to its website, when you shop at the store or donate to Goodwill North Central Texas, 90% of that money goes back into its mission services. 

Goodwill is mission centric. “People don't last in nonprofits unless they have a heart for the mission. You have to want to serve and help people,” said Cox. Every year, Goodwill serves over 12,000 individuals to provide skills, employment and what they need to live their best lives. “We offer a holistic approach, and that doesn’t work if the people of Goodwill don’t have a heart for it.” 

Those who donate items are donating directly to the homeless program, Camp Independence for high schools and other programs Goodwill supports. The purchases from stores directly impact the clients. It is a never-ending cycle of community support and service. “Whenever we give tours at Goodwill, people say, ‘I had no idea that you did all of this,’” said Cox. Goodwill is a non-profit organization owned by the community. 

Cox and Gipson’s hearts for this line of work was instilled in them as students. “The similarity between Goodwill’s impact and the campus is the family feel. We do top-notch quality programming for our clients, we provide a great experience and environment for our employees, but most importantly it’s a family environment,” said Gipson. 

Life can be unpredictable, but ultimately, Cox and Gipson feel that if you follow your passions, all will work out. “Texas Wesleyan provides a great forum for you to find yourself. I wanted to be a dentist, but I always liked art. I came in as an art major and planned to do dentistry, too. That was not my calling,” Cox said. He found his calling at Texas Wesleyan through the professors, classes, friendships and opportunities to serve. “Don’t stress out as a freshman about what you’re going to do because life will take many different turns. Texas Wesleyan sets you up for success.” 

These two are a true testament that following your passions and trusting the process will lead you on the right path. "We are great examples of majoring in something, but then working in a different profession," Gipson said. "The skills we were taught in the theatre department translate to our work today. David brings a lot of artistic thought and leadership to this organization. You can chase your passion at Texas Wesleyan, it will translate later. Don't be afraid of it," said Gipson. 

Professor Joe Brown, also known as “Pro Joe” or formerly “Papa Joe,” has seen many students graduate and go on to be successful in many different career paths, including Gipson. “Since working with Gipson on the Project Goodwill Gala, I have learned so much more about the many services Goodwill offers. Most people think of Goodwill as a place to drop off used household items or to shop. Goodwill is so much more. They work with a community of staff that helps rehabilitate people back into society through job training and give people a sense of worth, value and self-esteem,” said Brown. 

Cox’s family wanted him to follow the legacy of attending the University of Texas at Arlington, but he wanted something different. “I wanted something smaller. I toured bigger schools, but when I stepped on Texas Wesleyan’s campus, I just felt at home immediately,” he said. One thing David never forgot is when the president of the university greeted him and knew him by name.   

Both alumni felt the community aspect of TXWES was their favorite part of the university and remembered fond memories with professors and friends. “You are very well prepared, and part of the preparation is not being in a sea of people and just a number. Because it is a smaller university, you may come out with a little more edge than those of a larger university. I felt very educated and prepared for life,” said Gipson. 

Cox and Gipson have kept relationships fostered at Texas Wesleyan. “People will find a better sense of community and self and should apply for those reasons alone. The programs are great and people coming out of here are top-notch talents,” said Gipson.