Category: The Goodwill Blog

Four days in, the government shutdown has resulted in heavy political posturing and little hope for a solution. In addition, the debt ceiling will soon be reached, adding yet another layer to a bitterly partisan fiscal fight. Clearly, these are difficult times. The optimist in me hopes that the current impasse will prove to be our leaders’ rock-bottom moment. Perhaps the self-inflicted damage caused by the shutdown, and God forbid, debt default would serve to show the brinksmen on both side of the aisle their error in putting politics in front of policy.

READ MORE from People and Communities Remain Offstage in Shutdown’s Political Theater

Helena from Bakersfield, CA, asks, “The holiday season is still a few months away, but I’m already stressing about how I’m going to manage everything. I want my family to have a good experience, but I’m barely making ends meet as it is. Help!”

READ MORE from Ten Ways to Save Money This Holiday Season

Prior to receiving Goodwill services, Shay led a hectic life as the sole provider for her children. Now that she has a new career in the construction industry, she says her family looks up to her as a role model and mentor.

READ MORE from My Story – Shay Felder

The Helms College Augusta Campus recently celebrated its first graduating class. Participants completed a culinary education program at the college, which is operated by Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA (Augusta/Macon). A total of 10 students took part in an informal ceremony to recognize their accomplishments on September 19.

READ MORE from Helms College Celebrates First Graduating Class

As we snuggle into fall, we’ll be spending more time inside rather than out in the yard. For me, it’s a little early for holiday decorating, but a few fresh decorating elements are most definitely needed. I’ve always been a big fan of those long, narrow trays that run down the center of a table with multiple, same height pillar candles evenly spaced. However, the price tags on those long, Asian inspired candle bases can be hefty. Luckily, I keep supplies on hand. My basement is like a less organized mini-Goodwill® store. I went down there to look through some of my collected goodies I routinely purchase for future projects.

READ MORE from Decorate Your Table with DIY Fall Centerpieces

Once again, the country watches as the government risks having to shut its doors and default on the debt because Congress can’t seem to do it any other way. These dual events of autumn have become so familiar that they seem more usual than not.

READ MORE from It's Business as (Un)usual when It Comes to the Budget

Once again, the country watches as the government risks having to shut its doors and default on the debt because Congress can’t seem to do it any other way. These dual events of autumn have become so familiar that they seem more usual than not.

READ MORE from It’s Business as (Un)usual when It Comes to the Budget

Aaron from Frankfort, KY, asks, “I’m a hard worker but hate having to present at meetings or talk in front of lots of people. Since this is all some colleagues see of me, I feel like this is jeopardizing my reputation. Can you help?”

READ MORE from Improve Your Public Speaking Skills with These Tips

As part of a recycling partnership between Zanesville Welfare Organization and Goodwill Industries (OH) and CertainTeed’s Moundsville, WV, gypsum manufacturing facility, employees at the plant diverted more than 400,000 pounds of waste from landfills since last year. While recycling began shortly after the plant opened in 2008, the collaboration began in 2011.

READ MORE from In OH, Goodwill® Recycling Partnership Diverts 400,000 Pounds of Waste from Landfills

Through Goodwill's microenterprise program, Monique found the encouragement and training she needed to launch her own cookie company, MLA Gourmet.

READ MORE from My Story: Monique Armstrong

It’s common knowledge that cats love small spaces. Put a box down on the floor near a feline, blink your eyes, and when you open them again a furry little body will be smooshed inside (the smaller the space, the more enticing it is). My boys have had a long summer, so I thought it was about time I treat them to a new little hideout. Using things found at Goodwill® plus some scrap wood, wood glue, nails and a staple gun, I made them their very own A-frame.

READ MORE from Make a DIY Scratching Post and Shelter for Your Cat

When the Internet was invented, few had any idea what its full potential could be. Today, of course, we reap benefits that even a few years ago seemed like science fiction. With the rise of e-commerce and treasuries leaning as a result of the recession, many policymakers are eyeing Internet sales as a tempting revenue source. In fact, Congress is now considering whether it’s not enough that you pay sales tax in the state you live in, but also whether you should be taxed when you buy something over the Internet.

READ MORE from Will Internet Sales Tax Reach into Your Pocket?