Mansfield, Ohio – June 10, 2026 – The Goodwill Industries of Akron, Ohio, Inc. (GIA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Mechanics Bank and Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo to expand GIA’s revolving auto loan program to residents of Richland and Ashland counties. This expansion builds upon the program’s initial success in Summit and Medina counties, increasing access to safe, reliable transportation for individuals facing barriers to employment.
GIA serves Summit, Portage, Medina, Ashland and Richland counties. Transportation consistently emerges as a primary obstacle for individuals pursuing job opportunities, particularly for those who may struggle to qualify for traditional vehicle loans or who are vulnerable to predatory lending practices.
Pictured left to right: Brian Foltz, Brian Hunt, Laura Walker, Lamonica Finklea, Jason Painley, Mark Masters
The revolving auto loan program is made possible through an unrestricted gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, designated by GIA’s Board of Directors to strengthen transportation supports across its five‑county service area. While GIA expanded bus pass and fuel card programs region‑wide in 2021, the auto loan program has been implemented in phases due to its complexity.
“Transportation is foundational to economic mobility and long‑term job retention,” said Laura Walker, Vice President of Mission Services of Goodwill Industries of Akron. “This partnership reflects the power of collaboration — combining responsible lending, financial education and mission‑driven support to help individuals in Richland and Ashland counties achieve greater stability and independence.”
Under the expanded program, Mechanics Bank will serve as the loan servicer for eligible participants, while Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo will provide the financial education component to support successful repayment, long‑term financial well‑being and self-sufficiency. Individuals must be referred to the program through a partnering community agency.
“As a community bank, Mechanics Bank is committed to partnerships that create meaningful local impact,” said Jason Painley, Executive Vice President & CFO of Mechanics Bank. “We are proud to support this program alongside Goodwill and Catholic Charities, helping individuals access reliable transportation while building stronger financial futures.”
Catholic Charities brings trusted, community‑based financial education and coaching to the program, ensuring participants are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for long‑term success.
“We see firsthand how transportation challenges can affect employment opportunities and family stability,” said Brian Hunt, Community Emergency Services and Disaster Relief Program Coordinator of Catholic Charities. “By pairing financial education and support with access to reliable transportation, this program helps individuals build both confidence and financial resilience.”
GIA will continue to collaborate with community partners, employers, and preferred auto dealers to support participants throughout the process and will seek additional lending partners as the program continues to expand.
For more information, visit www.goodwillakron.org or call 800‑989‑8428.
About Goodwill Industries Serving Summit, Portage, Medina, Ashland & Richland Counties
The Goodwill Industries of Akron, Ohio, Inc., is a not‑for‑profit organization that helps individuals prepare for, find, and retain employment. Established in 1927, GIA operates as an independent affiliate of Goodwill Industries International and serves a five‑county region. Goodwill strengthens the workforce directly through employment programs and indirectly through the net proceeds from its retail stores and business services.
About Mechanics Bank
Mechanics Bank is a full‑service community bank dedicated to helping individuals, families, and businesses, with a strong focus on relationship banking and community investment. Mechanics Bank delivers personalized financial solutions that support the economic vitality of the communities it serves.
About Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo
Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo provides compassionate services to assist individuals and families in need across our 19-county service area in Northwest and West Central Ohio. Through crisis navigation services, financial education and case management, Catholic Charities works to remove barriers, strengthen stability, self-support and promote human dignity.
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Contact: Leah Davis
(330) 786-2519
ldavis@goodwillakron.org