Category: The Goodwill Blog

With more time on our hands during these unprecedented times, people have turned to creativity to keep themselves busy. Instead of giving in to online shopping, I’ve seen posts on social media from people who have learned to make do with what they have and turn it into something creative and fabulous. I’ve loved pouring through posts on social media, seeing how everyone has been upcycling their thrifted finds, both clothing and home goods, and turning them into something new again.

READ MORE from Three Crafty DIYs to Make At Home Using Your Goodwill Finds

Another week has gone by and another 3 million individuals have filed for unemployment, bringing the total number of unemployed to more than 36 million over the last two months. What started as a public health crisis became an economic crisis and morphed into an employment crisis. Lawmakers play a significant role as well, which is why Goodwill Industries International continues to join 450 other charitable nonprofits in asking Congress to provide #Relief4Charities.

READ MORE from Urge Congress to Support Nonprofits in the Next COVID-19 Relief Package

As we limit our time in public during this pandemic, staying connected with others is more important than ever. As we experience online conversations and meetings, adequate technology and internet access are essential. Free and low-cost phone and internet programs are available for those who may need help accessing connectivity.

READ MORE from Staying Connected While Staying at Home

Due to the pandemic, many people who’ve never required help before are seeking nourishment for their families. That’s why, in South Bend, IN, Goodwill of Michiana has teamed up with St. Vincent de Paul Society to distribute food to those in need.

READ MORE from Goodwill and St. Vincent de Paul Team Up to Feed South Bend

In an employer’s market, where employers can be very selective about who they hire, it’s quite possible you will hear “no” quite often. While it can be discouraging, please don’t take it personally. There could be many reasons for the rejection letter, call or email.

READ MORE from Rejoining the Workforce with High Unemployment – What if the employer says ‘no’?

As part of Goodwill® Week, both Goodwill Industries International and local Goodwill organizations around the country have encouraged people to “Find Good Everywhere.” Amidst partisan bickering, it’s not always easy to find good on Capitol Hill, but there were a few highlights to acknowledge, which have been beyond good for our advocacy efforts seeking #Relief4Charities in the next congressional package.

READ MORE from Finding Good During Goodwill Week

As the workforce begins the work of rebuilding, it’s important to keep in mind that we are now in an employer’s market. With an overabundance of talent, employers can be very selective about who they hire. To put your best foot forward, preparation is key.

READ MORE from Rejoining the Workforce with High Unemployment – Preparing for the Interview

Randy served 10 years in Maine State Prison and when he got out he had only the clothes on his back. Life is tough without a car or a place to call home. Add in a criminal record and a disability and life gets exceptionally difficult.

READ MORE from My Story: Randy

Goodwill® has always been on the frontlines of helping people grow their skills, find new jobs and build their careers throughout our 118-year history. As the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic forced nearly all Goodwill organizations to temporarily close retail locations and other facilities, many have formed partnerships at the local level to respond to the crisis and help people get much-needed resources.

READ MORE from Finding Good During the Pandemic

Goodwill is available to support and assist you in reinventing yourself so you will be equipped to take on the new employment market. This comes with a bit of preparation, but we are confident that, if you follow these steps and take time to practice interview questions, you will be more successful in landing the job you are seeking versus your competitors.

READ MORE from Rejoining the Workforce with High Unemployment – Current Realities

Goodwill® Week has taken place the first full week of May since 1951. In years past, local Goodwill organizations around the United States and Canada would host career fairs, donation drives, tours of their facilities and services, and other community-wide events to commemorate the week. While it is understandably difficult to celebrate during this time of crisis, it’s important to highlight the contributions that Goodwill and other charitable nonprofits continue to make in their communities.

READ MORE from Lend Your Voice During Goodwill Week

Through Goodwill of Orange County’s supported employment program, three Goodwill program participants are working tirelessly to keep the medical center clean. Last week, they were recognized for their dedication, even during the pandemic, with an appreciation celebration from local police officers, firefighters and paramedics.

READ MORE from Orange County First Responders Thank Goodwill Participants for Their Essential Work