Enterprise Holdings Foundation Contributes $125,000 Grant to MERS Goodwill Excel Centers

Enterprise grant will assist adult learners earn their high school diplomas

ST. LOUIS, MO (July xx, 2021) –The Enterprise Holdings Foundation has, once again, graciously granted $125,000 to MERS Goodwill for use in the organization’s Goodwill Excel Centers. The Foundation, affiliated in operation with the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental, and Alamo Rent-A-Car brands, is the philanthropic branch of Enterprise Holdings.

“Goodwill has always been grateful for the support received from the Enterprise Holdings Foundation for the continued success of our Excel Centers,” said Dave Kutchback, President and CEO of MERS Goodwill. “With the generosity of organizations like this one, MERS Goodwill can keep changing lives, uplifting communities, and guiding people to a bright future through our programs, especially the Excel Centers.”

MERS Goodwill operates four Excel Centers in Missouri: St. Louis, Poplar Bluff, Springfield, and Columbia. Offering a tuition-free high school experience for adult learners, Excel Centers offer flexible class schedules, life coaches, and free childcare to continue providing accessibility and opportunity to students working towards brighter futures.

A member of the MERS Goodwill Board of Directors, Chris Tabourne is an employee of Enterprise Holdings and continues to help MERS Goodwill support its mission of changing lives through the power of work.

“Enterprise, just like MERS Goodwill, believes in empowering our communities through education and skill-building,” said Chris Tabourne, Enterprise Holdings Vice President for Strategic Diversity Initiatives. “We’re honored to be able to contribute to programs like the Excel Centers and so pleased at the positive impact they continue to have on families in Missouri communities.”    

There are approximately 500,000 people in Missouri over 21 without a high school diploma and MERS Goodwill encourages adult learners and achievers to continue utilizing the Excel Centers. Those interested in applying to attend an Excel Center can call 314-982-8802 or visit https://mersgoodwill.wpengine.com/excel-center-registration-form/.

About MERS/Missouri Goodwill Industries:

MERS Goodwill changes lives through the power of work. Its vision is a community where each individual has the opportunity to learn, work, and achieve their greatest potential. Annually serving more than 11,000 individuals, the non-profit agency operates in 46 locations serving 93 counties in the bi-state area. Revenues from 44 Goodwill stores assist with funding MERS Goodwill job training and employment services. MERS Goodwill is a proud member of the United Way and is accredited by the Better Business Bureau.  The agency is also profiled on the nonprofit organization database GuideStar, where MERS Goodwill is ranked with the Platinum Seal of Approval.  For more information about MERS Goodwill or to find a Goodwill donation center near you, call 314-241-3464 or visit www.mersgoodwill.org.