Goodwill Asks: What’s Important to You This Election Season?
Campaign season is fully underway as both major political parties prepare for their respective conventions. Living in a swing state means I’m exposed to even more commercials, radio ads and newspaper editorials than those lucky enough to be able to avoid seeing such negativity — and I’m a policy wonk who usually loves this stuff, especially when the issues are being debated. There is certainly no lack of issues critical for nonprofits and supporters like you that can be discussed.
What to Include When a Job Application Requires Writing Samples
Stan from Great Falls, MT, asks, “I’m applying for an office job that involves some writing, and the employer wants me to submit some writing samples. I’ve never had to do this before. Can you help?”
My Story: Carolyn Wright
When Carolyn found out she was going to be losing her job of 13 years, she knew she needed to update her skills in order to find new work. She connected with Goodwill’s medical office training program, which also allowed her to update her Microsoft skills. After being placed through a temp agency, she was eventually hired on full time to work for the Huntington Fire Department.
Mason Jars: The Ultimate DIY Thrift Find
This week many of us here at Goodwill were lucky enough to participate in the Goodwill Summer Conference held in Miami Beach, FL! It gave some of us bloggers a chance to get to know one another in person and to host an event showcasing each of our individual interests! We couldn’t keep the good stuff to ourselves, so I’ve decided to share with you the six projects that I completed using mason jars for our session.
Congress Recesses, Leaving Deficit Reduction Question Unanswered
This week, Congress recessed for the month, while President Obama signed the Sequestration Transparency Act of 2012 (H.R. 5872) on Tuesday. The law requires the administration to provide details within 30 days about how it would implement automatic spending cuts – as mandated under the Budget Control Act – to defense and non-defense programs. While […]
Are Payday Loans a Good Idea?
Bill from Detroit, MI, asks “There’s a check cashing and payday loan store near my office and it seems like an easy way to get quick cash. But my neighbor said she had trouble with the loan got there. What do you about payday loans.”
My Story: Vander Cherry
Vander saw his opportunities slowly fading away from him as a senior in high school. His teachers connected him with Goodwill’s Project Search, which taught him the skills he needed to interview and land an internship. His last internship led to permanent employment. He credits Goodwill for helping him achieve things he once thought were impossible.
Bringing Thrift to the Masses: A New Take on Goodwill
Take one amazing donated city space, add a cultural phenomenon, mix it with charitable organizations, throw in some spectacular secondhand goods and gently stir.
BOOM! What you get is the sweet, sweet taste of Edited, Goodwill of Greater Washington’s three-day pop-up shop that earned rave reviews and temporarily drove hordes of shoppers to Chinatown in downtown DC this week.
Automatic Spending Cuts Threaten Resources that Help People Find Jobs
At a time when unemployment remains high, resources that support workforce development and job training are an important part of the nation’s economic recovery and job creation effort.
Unfortunately, automatic spending cuts, slated to take effect in January 2013, threaten to drastically reduce these resources, which support the efforts of local Goodwill agencies in communities across the United States to help people who face employment challenges to find jobs and advance in careers.
Seeking a Job? How to Market Yourself to Employers
Judy from Denton, TX, asks “I’m currently unemployed and looking for a job. I have a lot of great skills and experience, but I’m not very comfortable selling myself to potential employers. Any advice?”
My Story: Jorge Nieves
Jorge was struggling in school and having a hard time at home when a Goodwill teacher recommended he join a mentorship program. Goodwill paired him with Nate who, like Jorge has interests in film and music. In addition to sharing hobbies, Nate helps Jorge stay on track in school. Jorge says, “My involvement with Nate and Goodwill has made me a better person.”
Goodwill, EEOC to Offer Webinar on Veterans’ Rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act
Today, we celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law 22 years ago. In an effort to provide guidance with regard to the ADA and its impact on the employment of veterans, Goodwill Industries International (GII) and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission will host a webinar July 31 at 2:00 EDT.