My Goodwill Story: Darren

Smiling man with a gray beard and glasses wearing a bright lime-green shirt, secured with a seat belt in a car.

This time of year, amidst the hustle and bustle, we’re all thinking about how much we must be thankful for. After all, that’s what Thanksgiving is all about. With that in mind, we want to share the story of someone thankful for the new direction he has been able to take his life. 

Congress Punts Funding Deadline Into 2024

Front view of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. with the dome and flag, set against a clear blue sky.

In a rare show of bipartisanship for a deeply divided Congress, lawmakers recently passed a second stopgap funding bill to avert the government shutdown that threatened to take effect after the midnight deadline on Friday, November 17. The continuing resolution (CR) temporarily extends funding for federal agencies and programs into 2024 using staggered deadlines.

2023 ELECTION RECAP

Capitol building in Washington, DC at sunset with green lawn and trees in the foreground

While considered an “off” year, voters in 37 states went to the polls and exercised their right to vote on state and and local offices, special elections, ballot questions, constitutional amendments and more. Gubernatorial elections were held in Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Governor Andy Beshear (D) won another term. Investing in higher education and workforce […]

How to Bring the Whole Family Together this Thanksgiving

Top-down view of a festive table with a roasted turkey, pies, and bowls of sides on a blue tablecloth.

Times have seriously changed since your oldest relative’s first memorable Thanksgiving. Yet, all of the best things this holiday has to offer remain the same: family, food and gratefulness. Some holidays are exciting for each generation for different reasons. With Halloween, for example, kids love trick-or-treating, most teens and young adults love Halloween parties and many adults enjoy setting the scene with fun décor. But with Thanksgiving, the youngest and oldest people at the table are all there for the same reasons. It’s a holiday that truly brings us all together

My Goodwill Story: Troy

Smiling man wearing a navy Dallas Cowboys t-shirt, a light cap, and glasses, standing in front of a cork board.

Troy was looking for something new. He worked as a security guard for the past 15 years but craved a new beginning.  While trying to find new positions, he felt that living in Southern Texas and not speaking Spanish disadvantaged him. He also knew that a new career would mean some additional education that he couldn’t afford. 

Tell Congress to Continue Funding Affordable Internet

Capitol dome framed by vibrant fall foliage and a bright blue sky.

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides affordable, high-speed home internet service to more than 21 million households across the country. With support from the ACP, low-income families, people with disabilities, students, rural residents, and older Americans that struggle to get online can now access virtual learning, find jobs, and participate in the digital economy.

Continuing Education: How to Further your Knowledge and Improve your Job Prospects

Group of adults at computers in a classroom, smiling while working.

This blog covers the importance of education and how it can help you to find, reach, and keep meaningful and well-paid work. We know there are a lot of questions when you start thinking about furthering your education. How should you approach going back to school? What are the benefits, and how can it help your job search? For more information, continue reading.

A Spooky Approach: Last Minute Halloween Doorway Ideas

Three pumpkins on a porch near a dark front door.

Alright, you guys. Halloween is tomorrow night. You’ve probably put some time into your costume, but if you’re staying home to hand out candy, have you considered setting the scene on your porch or in your front yard? Since kids these days get candy for nearly every holiday (in their Easter baskets, Christmas stockings, and Valentines), and – let’s be honest – they usually don’t need an excuse to play dress-up, the eerie mood of the night is what makes Halloween truly special.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Banner poster promoting National Disability Employment Awareness Month: bold 'Advancing Access & Equity' with colorful arrows and diverse photos, including a wheelchair user.

Before October comes to an end, it is important to recognize National Disability Awareness Month (NDEAM).  In his Presidential Proclamation, President Biden observed, “a workforce that includes people with disabilities is one that is stronger and more effective.”

My Goodwill Story: Angela

Smiling construction student in a gray shirt holds a trowel and level in a bricklaying workshop.

Some people are destined for greatness. Two years ago, Angela might not have thought that about herself. She was involved with the court system and unsure what path to take. When talking to a friend, she heard about some of the services offered at Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Angela was particularly interested in LifeLaunch: Ignite. She enrolled in the program, looking for assistance with furthering her education and finding employment.

Barbie-core is Taking Over As Halloween’s Biggest Costume Trend

Cheerful couple in colorful party outfits posing in a pink-themed room with bunting and shoes lined up.

It’s becoming mainstream to rock the bright pink look out and about in everyday life – there’s so much outfit inspiration I’m excited to share with all my pink wearing friends. Some of the looks below are perfect Barbie-core streetstyle looks that can be worn from day-to-night, work to dinner, and for everything in between.