Category: The Goodwill Blog

Back-to-school season was always more than just a checklist for me. It was a fresh start; a chance to express who I was through my personal style. I remember wanting to feel trendy and current, but in a way that still felt like me. So I spent summers during middle school seeking inspiration from my favorite brands and magazines (bare with me, this was before Pinterest and TikTok) then I’d turn to thrift stores (especially Goodwill®) to build my outfits and personal style. Whether you’re headed to school or you’re shopping for a student, these are the go-to steps I’ve followed throughout my years as a thrifter to help you find back-to-school looks that feel like you.

READ MORE from Back to Cool: Thrifting Back-to-School Style

This week marks an important anniversary for the landmark federal law supporting older Americans. The Older Americans Act (OAA), which was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson on July 14, 1965, established a wide range of social support and health-related services and programs for older adults. The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), authorized by Title V of OAA, supports states and nonprofit organizations in connecting low-income individuals who are age 55 and over with training and employment opportunities.

READ MORE from Older Americans Act Turns 60 as Funding for Older Workers is Delayed

Warm weather and sunshine can get the creative juices flowing. Plus, these longer days mean we have more time to get to all the projects we’ve been dreaming of doing. Decluttering and organizing have long been a great way to start a new season with a sense of freshness and possibility. Letting go of what no longer serves you to make room for what you need at the moment can be such an important part of the process, but one that oftentimes gets skipped. Look at the different parts of your life to see where you want to focus first. For me, finding a matching pair of my earrings has been one of those areas. It was finally time to do something about it with the help of my DIY earring holder.

READ MORE from Summer Upcycle Inspo Project: DIY Earring Holder

There are plenty of ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) in your career search. This post will discuss how you can use it to prepare for interviews. If you are interested in learning more about the ways this newer technology can help you be your best self and land your dream job, keep reading. 

READ MORE from How to Use AI for Your Interview Preparation

While the Fourth of July marks America’s Independence Day, everyday people in the U.S. are working toward their own definition of independence. That was the case for Tyler after he experienced involvement with the justice system. Tyler first heard about the services offered by Goodwill Industries of West Michigan (Muskegon) through his parole officer. He had his sights set on building a stable and independent future for himself but wasn’t quite sure how to get there.

READ MORE from My Goodwill Story – Tyler 

Many components are necessary to effectively secure employment and earn a stable income. In addition to strong interviewing skills and the possession of job-related competencies, another critical aspect of the process involves drafting a quality résumé. This can be a cumbersome task. However, if you are interested in learning about successful formatting techniques, determining what content to include or how to incorporate elements that can help draw positive attention to you and your experience in creative ways, continue reading.

READ MORE from How to Make a Strong Résumés and Common Mistakes

Sunshine, BBQs and spending time with friends can be the recipe for a perfect Fourth of July weekend to celebrate the summer holiday. If you’re lucky enough to get a long weekend off work for the holiday, you might be starting to think about the perfect look for your plans.

READ MORE from Celebrate Summer with Stars, Stripes and Understated Structure

June marks Pride Month, a time to showcase the accomplishments of members of the LGBTQ+ community. As we commemorate this Pride Month, we want to share Auggie’s story.

READ MORE from My Goodwill Story: Auggie

International Picnic Day is on June 18th this year, and it’s the perfect excuse to put together an impromptu family fun day outdoors. Picnics can be a relaxing change of pace from daily life and a nice moment to unplug and enjoy nature. Pair this extra time in the sunshine with family or friends, delicious food, and special finds from Goodwill® and you can’t go wrong.

READ MORE from Curate Your Own Thrifted Picnic for International Picnic Day

This blog will outline several accessible ways to equip yourself with additional knowledge and skills that can be beneficial to you both on and off the job. If you are interested to learn more about ways to advance personally and professionally, keep reading.

READ MORE from Professional Development in the Modern Workplace

Recently, the White House asked Congress to approve $9.4 billion in rescissions for already approved spending that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has sought to eliminate, including funding for public broadcasting and foreign aid. While no funding for workforce or education programs was included in this request, White House officials indicated that they hope to build support on Capitol Hill for their efforts to cut “wasteful” government spending and that the Administration may seek additional recissions of existing program funds in the future.

READ MORE from White House Seeks Approval for “DOGE” Cuts; Hints at More to Come

This Best Friends Day, we’re celebrating the power of connection, encouragement and support through the story of J.G., a dedicated barista whose journey with Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska (Grand Island) has led to more than just a job. It’s led to a sense of purpose and a circle of friends. 

READ MORE from My Goodwill Story – J.G.