Albertans Assemble Goodwill Kits for Good

In Canada, COVID-19 case levels are at never-before-seen highs, and with that comes greater restrictions than are being seen in the United States. As a result, since the pandemic began, volunteer placements at Goodwill Industries of Alberta (Canada) have been in a holding pattern or they’ve been outright cancelled. This left many people within the Goodwill’s Career Connections division without a place to contribute in the community. The Goodwill’s job development team took this challenge head-on and created “The Goodwill Volunteer Hub.”

The Volunteer Hub is based out of the Goodwill’s Career Connections training facility in Edmonton, Alberta. There, individuals with disabilities assemble and create different ‘kits’ to help spread the “GOOD” vibes throughout the region.

It began with creating kits for disadvantaged people in the community (in partnership with the United Way). Different groups benefit from these kits and the packages range from:

  • A children’s literacy kit
  • A senior’s activity kit
  • A pencil case kit
  • A Thank You card to frontline workers

In addition, volunteers create Share the GOOD packages to stimulate local business. Albertans with disabilities assemble all items, creating dignity and joy through the power of work. Assembly options are endless as this hub is a platform for volunteerism and community engagement.

Goodwill Industries of Alberta welcomes this community engagement because of the myriad challenges before us. Because when faced with challenges, opportunities abound!