Category: The Goodwill Blog

There are a lot of reasons why you might not buy that amazing catalog or boutique piece you’re currently obsessed with: As an in-demand item, it could constantly be out-of-stock; perhaps you discovered it on Pinterest a season too late when it’s no longer for sale, or, simple enough, the price tag could just be too steep. Whatever your reasons, don’t forget that you can probably recreate your favorite trends using Goodwill finds.

READ MORE from Get the Look for Less: Recreating Trends with Goodwill® Finds

While Congress is still wrangling with budget and appropriations and passing legislation before focusing on the mid-term elections, state and local governments are hard at work as well, creating more opportunities to engage at the state level. Nearly every one of the nation’s Governors have provided their state of the state addresses to their constituents. Job creation and the skills gap was a major theme in all of the speeches, affirming that the important work of local Goodwills in providing job training and workforce development to those who face challenges to employment.

READ MORE from 2018 State of the States

At almost 60 years old, I was laid off after 15 years with my previous company. With no GED, college or technical training plus my severe health problems, I had trouble finding a new job. One day, I discovered that Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids had a technical training program that could lead to employment in a call center. I applied and was accepted into the program. I am now able to work from home 4 days a week, which helps limit movement and pain for my disability. Best of all, both my husband and I now have health insurance. I love my job, they care about me as a person and I have great co-workers. I am so thankful for how much my life has improved since discovering the training program at my local Goodwill. I never would have guessed things would have turned out so well.

READ MORE from My Story: Melissa Lambright

As the population ages, the profile of leaders change. After years of steady growth – albeit with a few scares, like “the recession we had to have” – Baby Boomers are starting to retire and Gen X are filling more and more senior leadership positions with measured and meaningful skills they learnt along the way. But what about Gen Y, or as they are increasingly being referred to, Millennials? What will be their way of working and have we even considered what legacy they will leave?

READ MORE from Why You Should Be Investing in Developing the Leadership Skills of Millennials

I’d say there’s just enough time for one last weekend away at the ski slopes or an ice fishing cabin before the winter disappears, so let’s make it the best it can possibly be! Here are a few projects that can help you enjoy a cozy cabin weekend away (or help you create that same comfy feeling at home). Local Goodwill organizations helps support services for millions of people annually, and delivers positive social and environmental outcomes for the global community, so grab your project supplies at your local Goodwill to make your dollars go a little bit further!

READ MORE from 3 Craft Ideas for a Cozy Cabin Weekend

An estimated six million people make proposals around Valentine’s Day, and this week President Trump issued a proposal of his own, the Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) budget proposal.

READ MORE from The Administration’s Proposal

If you have been following our blog series, you may have read our previous social good blog where we discussed how leadership is more than a title, it is a healthy mix of actions, aptitudes and attitude. The future of successful business is dependent on good leadership that includes and values everyone. Check out this TED Talk Playlist for some great tips on how to be an inclusive leader.

READ MORE from Three TED Talks on Inclusive Leadership

If you’re one of the millions of Americans with an irregular income, then you know that managing your finances can be a challenge. Whether you’re a small business owner, an employee with fluctuating hours, someone who works on commission, a seasonal worker, or wait staff whose income depends on tips, you’ve probably faced weeks and months when it was difficult to make ends meet.

READ MORE from Managing Finances If You Have an Irregular Income

I don’t think of local Goodwill organizations as a thrift store anymore. Instead, it’s a constantly-refreshed supply shop where I can find foundation pieces to accent for customized clothing and details to round out my home decor.

READ MORE from Plan Your DIY Valentine’s Day with Goodwill

Valentine’s Day is coming up! Are you ready to find something sweet? Thrift something special with some help from Goodwill. We compiled a list of some new ideas to help inspire your Valentine’s Day. Heart Wreath DIY Make a lovely heart wreath with some thrifted puzzle pieces! Direct URL to YouTube video. Painted Candy Jars

READ MORE from Top 3 DIY Valentine's Day Gift and Décor Ideas

Once again, we find ourselves in a situation where the government is open at the time of this writing and the government may be closed by the time you read this. But the Senate has reached an agreement and a deal is on the table for the House to accept. What’s the deal?

READ MORE from Let’s Make A Deal

Goodwill means more to me than a paycheck. It’s where I have grown and built my confidence for nearly 20 years. I learned by working at my local Goodwill to deal with life and get along with people. I’ve found a place where I’m comfortable. And I’ve found peace at work and happiness.

READ MORE from My Story: Todd Parker