Find My Goodwill

My Story: Jorge Nieves

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

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.”

My Story: Luis Miguel Soto

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

Before coming to Goodwill, Luis had a hard time finding a job with his disability and felt useless. He was referred to Goodwill and, after a year and a half, was placed in stable employment where he gets to help other people. He now feels his life has a purpose.

Thrift Store Scarves: The Perfect Outfit Accessory

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

When you think of vintage style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor or Grace Kelly what comes to mind? Aside from their timeless beauty and sophistication, there is another factor that they all have in common: the scarf. From atop their heads to around their handbags, it was a rare instance that a beautiful silk scarf was not seen adorning one of these ladies’ outfits in one way or another.

My Story: Francis Edwards

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

Francis struggled to maintain a job due to long-term mental health challenges. Goodwill helped him acclimate to working in an office, providing strategies and outlets for him to manage stress. He now works full-time with Goodwill and feels his mental health will stay strong as long as he is working.

Thrift Shop Picture Frames Offer Oodles of Decorating Possibilities

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

When I poke through my local Goodwill retail stores, I’m often a little sad to see the piles of picture frames that have been donated and are just waiting to find a new home. They once held photographs of family members, collage-d memories or documents of note for an individual or an entire household. This month I set out to find an alternate purpose for some of the members of this picture frame graveyard.

Despite Hard Times, Goodwill Works to Provide Opportunities

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

Earlier this week, NPR highlighted the struggles of low-income people in Reading, PA, and the nonprofit agencies that serve them. The day after the report was released, I visited Reading while visiting Goodwill Keystone Area to tour its new facility and meet people that Goodwill who are overcoming their employment challenges with support from Goodwill.

Feeling Patriotic? Show Your Pride by Shopping at Thrift Stores

Diverse group of six workers wearing safety vests posing in front of a loading dock.

Every time July 4 rolls around, I’m reminded of three things: American flag sunglasses, cakes decorated with berries and watching the sky burst with bright, patriotic colors as I nurse my most recent farmer’s tan. It’s also the time of year that reminds me that so much of what I’ve seen in thrift stores are products made in America as well as items that let us display our national pride.