Category: The Goodwill Blog

Wedding season is such a special time, with flowers in bloom and love in the air. Wedding celebrations are full of memories to treasure, and it’s rare to have all of your loved ones in the same place to support and celebrate you. Traditions are also part of what makes weddings special. The “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” tradition has been a way for brides to manifest good luck on their wedding day while also getting creative.

READ MORE from Something Old, Something New, Something Special Found at Goodwill

Recently, the House Appropriations Committee voted to advance its Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education appropriations bill. The annual spending measure proposes funding levels for many of the federal workforce development programs that help support the training and employment services offered by local Goodwill® organizations.

READ MORE from House Proposes Deep Cuts to Workforce in Funding Bill

Do you currently have a job that you dread attending? Perhaps, you have troublesome co-workers or face long hours? Maybe you are consistently given the task of completing large and complex projects without adequate assistance? Whatever the case, this article delves into what could be contributing to this negative professional reality and offers techniques for how to respond.

READ MORE from Working a Job You Dislike

Spending extra time outdoors in the sunshine is one of the best things about summer. When it’s nice out, I’ll find any excuse to get outside — walks, runs or reading in the park. I love throwing together a casual picnic, whether it’s just for me or for a group of friends. Getting people together in the fresh air feels extra special, and when you can do it in a park, you can host without the hassle of getting your home cleaned up and ready for guests.

READ MORE from Summer Picnic Inspiration With Goodwill® Finds

As we celebrate the 4th of July, we’re surrounded by American flags, fireworks and barbeques. However, independence means a lot more for those who have struggled hard to achieve it.  That was the case for Christopher. After involvement with the justice system, he had a difficult time finding employment. He wanted so badly to be independent but found that his background was still a barrier.  

READ MORE from My Goodwill Story: Christopher

June is Pride Month, a reminder to be brave, stay authentic even when it goes against the mainstream and have fun while expressing yourself. One of the best ways to do these things is through what you wear and how you choose to style yourself. Oftentimes, finding a look or an experience that feels truly “you” can take some experimenting. That’s where shopping at Goodwill® can come in.

READ MORE from Thrifting Brave Color Combinations for Pride Month

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is due for reauthorization. WIOA is the primary federal workforce development law. It supports a nationwide network of one-stop career centers through which job seekers receive career services and training opportunities, including job search assistance, education, supportive services, and on-the-job training.

READ MORE from Modernizing the Workforce System

Father’s Day is coming up and with it the excuse to spoil the fathers and father figures in our lives. At least in my experience, shopping for dad can be difficult. Oftentimes it’s “the thought that counts” that rings truer than a gift he’ll use forever.

READ MORE from Finally, A No-Fail Gift Idea For Father’s Day

This blog will address several common issues encountered by employees in the workplace and offer a few suggestions as to the best possible responses. If you’re interested in learning more about what can cause these difficulties, the effect they may have on you at work and how to react professionally, continue reading.

READ MORE from Gracefully Dealing with 3 Common Issues in the Workplace

In the spirit of Older Americans Month, we honor the inspiring story of William, whose life took a remarkable turn upon walking into the Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (Fort Myers). William’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of community support and personal determination. 

READ MORE from My Goodwill Story – William 

The Congressional Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Appropriations Process is getting underway for the fiscal year that begins October 1. House Appropriations Committee Chair Tom Cole released the topline allocations for the 12 subcommittees. House Republicans propose a 6 percent cut to non-defense programs, while increasing military spending by about 1 percent.

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Garry, a 40-year-old single father, recently went on a journey of transformation, not just for himself, but for his son, Brayden, who has been his beacon of hope. Garry’s life was tumultuous, marked by the challenges of a broken home, the lure of illegal activities and the shackles of addiction. His youth was a battle against the odds, with school dropouts and prison bars casting long shadows over his potential. Yet, amidst the turmoil, the birth of his children became a pivotal chapter in his life, a reminder that every day is a new page to be written. 

READ MORE from My Goodwill Story: Garry