My Story: Todd Parker

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.

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Leadership is More Than a Title

It’s a common postulation that people will follow you based on a title. CEO, President, CFO, COO, CIO, Vice President – these are all titles that, at face value, command respect and obedience. But I would say that the level of someone’s title is not automatically synonymous with leadership. To be sure, effective leadership goes way beyond what comes after the name on a business card – it’s a healthy mix of actions, aptitudes and attitude.

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Considering the Costs and Opportunities of College

Everyone knows that college is expensive. The good news is, there are many different education options at different price points. And even if you find that earning a four-year degree from a private college makes the most sense for your career goals, chances are you can find some sort of financial assistance to help manage the cost.

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Sneaky Work-Safe Style

Work attire. What a phrase. If it makes you cringe slightly, then you’re not alone. Finding clothing that’s professional and still lets you feel like yourself —work-safe style, we’ll call it—can be super tricky. Oftentimes we end up sticking with boring slacks and button-down tops because dressing for your 9-5 isn’t always inspiring. Today, though, we’re going to look at how a few thrifty shoppers infused their work-wears and environment with touches of their own personality to brighten up the daily grind. So, go punch in and grab your coffee…let’s get to work!

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State of the Union Address Offers Opportunities to Advocate

President Trump delivered his first official State of the Union (SOTU) address, although he previously spoke to a joint session of Congress in the weeks following his inauguration. While the speech did not include much substantive detail around the proposals put forth, the President did touch upon a number of specific areas of interest to Goodwill and the people we serve.

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The Advantages Employers Receive from Hiring People with Disabilities

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often represent a talented, untapped labor market that employers should consider. Hiring people with IDD doesn’t mean that employers have jettisoned their business interests. On the contrary, hiring people with IDD is good for the bottom line.

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Can I Earn a Living through the Gig Economy?

The gig economy refers to short-term jobs and opportunities that enable you to work for yourself rather than an employer. Websites and apps like Uber, TaskRabbit, Airbnb and Fiverr connect people who have a need with those who have goods or services to offer. The gig economy can certainly offer unique ways to earn money, but before you dive in head first, make sure you understand the reality of its earning potential and the related expenses and risks.

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Add a Pop! To Your Look with Printed Pants

Looking down the shirt racks while I’m shopping, pattern after pattern jumps out at me. Over in the pants section, though…not so much. Why is it that we tend to be more comfortable with basic, neutral pants and prints up on top? Patterned pants do tend to sneak a little more into summery looks, but I’d love to challenge that notion today by highlighting some incredible thrifted ensembles that totally win with prints on the bottom. Let’s see how a few fashionistas wear designs below the waist…

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My Story: Stetson Odom

When I first moved to Panama City, I went to go check out the local Goodwill store and little did I know that was going to be the start of my life. As I was leaving, I saw a sign about Goodwill offering free GED classes. I had dropped out of high school because of testing anxiety and other issues. As a result, I had a hard time getting a job. In fact, I have never even had a job before. Here in front of me was a sign – a sign that I needed to do something with my life.

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