Mission & History
Mission
We ignite pathways to success through education, empowerment, and inspiration.
History
Godman Guild Association was founded in 1898 by Ms. Anna B. Keagle. Her undying passion to make her community a better place and commitment to her community began long before Godman Guild Association was established: she a was Sunday school teacher. Upon discovering that all her students had been arrested and taken to jail, Ms. Keagle decided to take action; she refused to be part of a community where children were incarcerated. Ms. Keagle worked to develop a holistic approach for community development and, as a result, Godman Guild Association was created to promote strong families and a strong community.
Today, Godman Guild Association focuses on Youth and Family Empowerment and Workforce Development: two areas aligning with Ms. Keagle’s original mission to create strong families and a strong community. Supporting Godman Guild are Camp Mary Orton and Blue Bow Tie Catering.
Vision
A city where everyone realizes their potential and achieves success.
The Godman Guild Association as it is today shares one crucial trait with its earliest iteration: a commitment to enriching Columbus communities, and challenging them to be their best. Accordingly, Godman Guild Association continues to implement new and creative strategies to ensure that communities and their residents are always moving forward. We strive to create generations of educated, empowered citizens.
We are a settlement house, Evolved!
We are driven by our five Core Values:
Accountability We hold ourselves to the same high standards as our stakeholders do.
Readiness Our organization pivots to meet the community needs, and our STARs* are prepared.
*Skilled Through Alternative Routes
Impact Our programs empower individuals to be the best versions of themselves.
Equity We understand that different people will need different supports to succeed.
Empathy We meet people where they are, without judgement.