Goodwill Conveys Need for Welfare Reform Before Congress

This week I had the great pleasure of working with Boyd Brown, area director of employment & training of Goodwill Easter Seals Minnesota (St. Paul), as he testified before a Congressional subcommittee. The hearing, which was on welfare reform proposals, specifically involved the reauthorization of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. His testimony provided great insight into the journey of an individual on public assistance, struggling to find a job and the challenges faced by case managers trying to put people to work.

Careers in Focus: Advanced Manufacturing

If working in high-tech fields interests you, you may want to consider a career in advanced manufacturing, creating state-of-the art products and components using high-tech equipment. Here are just a few of the career fields and credentials available to skilled workers within advanced manufacturing.

My Story: Lisa Smith

Sixteen years ago, I was a professional vocalist on my way to landing a recording contract. However, my life took a dramatic turn when I was rear-ended by a drunk driver. The near-fatal wreck left me paralyzed from the waist down.

Mix Patterns Like a Pro

With tons of fun patterns trending out there – chevron, florals, stripes – why choose just one? Heading out of the house with something snazzy on is a great way to up your confidence and make the most of your day. Gone are the days when mixing patterns was considered a faux pas. Today, a great pattern is especially well appreciated when it has found its perfect partner in crime.

Lincoln’s Words Remind Us of Our Duty 150 Years Later

At the end of President Lincoln’s second inaugural address, he implored a war-weary nation “…to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan….” All the country was aware of the sacrifice. From big cities to small rural towns, there was either direct destruction because of the civil war or their soldiers had been lost or wounded in battle. As in most of his addresses to the nation, Lincoln spoke to both current and future generations.

Hit the Beach with Iconic Thrift Finds

Throughout the year, I look forward to summertime. Not only for the obvious reasons: the warmth, the sun, and the generally leisurely attitude that many people adopt, but also because summer brings trips to the ocean. I realize, of course, that we could go to the ocean any day, but what is the fun in going when it’s cold out? It’s summer now, so the time has come for this girl to plan a trip to the seaside!

Five Considerations When Creating a Digital Portfolio

While job seekers will always need a good résumé and cover letter, increasing numbers of job applicants are creating digital portfolios to showcase their experience and skills. A digital portfolio can make sure that hiring managers see relevant, work-appropriate information if they research you, too. Here are five steps to consider when creating your digital portfolio.

The Pursuit of Happiness

In just a couple of days, Americans will celebrate the 239th year since members of the Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. Arguably the most famous statement within this revered document is the notion that all people are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

Festive Designs for Your Independence Day Celebration

With Independence Day right around the corner, you may be looking for new and exciting ways to celebrate. Of course, a parade and fireworks are traditional, but don’t forget to dress up your self and your home!

Not Losing is the New Winning

Perhaps it can only be true in Washington, DC, that not losing is considered winning. In the face of mounting debt, a stubbornly high deficit, and an economy still struggling to grow fast enough to add enough jobs, Congress is keeping a tight grip on spending.

Four Strategies for Dealing with a Bad Boss

Just about everybody has to deal with a bad boss at some point in their career, but whether you succeed in the job depends on satisfying your supervisor. Here are some tips for dealing with a problematic manager.

My Story: Sandy Young

After the first proper introduction of what Goodwill does – I was hooked. I had no idea that every item I donated went to create job training and placement. Now, since I am trained to be a Goodwill Ambassador (volunteer), I am able to tell even more people about the amazing ways Goodwill creates a more employable community.