Travis McCausland is a Recognition Programs Associate at the Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. He is also a graduate of the Good Careers Academy at Goodwill of San Antonio (TX).
My Story: Travis McCausland

Travis McCausland is a Recognition Programs Associate at the Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. He is also a graduate of the Good Careers Academy at Goodwill of San Antonio (TX).
It’s unabashedly evident today, as I snuggle up with my son at home on his very first school snow day, that winter isn’t over yet. I was also reminded of this a few weeks ago when my favorite winter coat ripped right down the side, exposing my sweater-clad self to a February chill. At this point in the season, I can’t bare the thought of shelling out $100 or more for a new wool or down coat as I’d rather save my money for cute rain boots or spring-like scarves. Who’s with me? What’s a coatless lady to do? Head to Goodwill®, of course!
Anyone who has ever planned an event before is probably reminded of the Wizard of Oz quote, “Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.” The Goodwill Industries International’s (GII) public policy team is in the midst of planning our annual advocacy event, which includes a day on Capitol Hill meeting with lawmakers and staff. For our public advocates including shoppers, donors, people who have received services, and other Goodwill stakeholders – the event also includes a Virtual Advocacy Day.
Each month, the Social Good Blog highlights news and resources on a specific topic. In February, we are exploring diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Each month, the Social Good Blog highlights news and resources on a specific topic. In February, we are exploring diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Remember that episode of "Friends" when Phoebe shares her distaste for Pottery Barn because everyone who shops there ends up with the same stuff? Today’s post is dedicated to all of you Phoebes out there who prefer to have the unique, eye-catching pieces that can only be found at places like Goodwill. Whether you seek oddities that cause a raised brow, collector’s items, or clothing custom-made for celebrities, you never know what you might find at Goodwill!
READ MORE from Shop at Goodwill®: You Never Know What You Might Find
As Valentine’s Day came and went all across America many of us spent the long weekend with a loved one dining out, taking a trip, exchanging cards and gifts or quietly spending time together. But in the nation’s capital, valentines and signs of affection were nowhere to be found. It started just the week before with the announcement of the President’s FY 2017 budget.
READ MORE from Cupid’s Arrow Misses Wide Right in Washington, DC
Leaders working to create diverse and inclusive workplaces must make the connection between diversity initiatives, cultural differences and their organization’s business goals. Effective business cases set the context for diversity and identify organizational challenges that must be addressed in order to create change. Building inclusive workplace cultures requires far more than a strong business case, the “right” program, or even the most sophisticated assessment tools or metrics. To create high-performing work cultures, business leaders must pay attention to the people side— how employees connect to company values, its social impact on the broader community, the workplace role models employees are exposed to, and employees’ willingness and ability to participate in culture change efforts.
Looking at how I could move forward in life and what my next step was, I knew that education was something that had to be done. As far as what I could do, I wasn’t sure. I knew that I had little money and I had little time, but I needed something that would catapult me into a career where I could support my children and move forward in life.
Are you ready for another adventure in thrifting? This week, let’s talk about how it’s possible to be incredibly busy (and even a little bit lazy, if you’re anything like me…) and still accomplish your own DIY projects! The secret is to find thrift store treasures that are mostly cool, but just need a little love. Then with a few minutes and a plan, you’ll be able to turn it into something really special. When I spot something at Goodwill that interests me, but needs a facelift, I often consider doing one of the following: painting it, repurposing it, or trimming it. One of those three options usually yields a unique project that I am really proud of.