Jordin Sparks and Goodwill Share the New Lives Impacted by Shoppers and Donors  

Female singer with curly hair performs on a small stage beside a guitarist inside a clothing store.

To celebrate the launch of Goodwill’s updated New Lives campaign, Goodwill Industries International (GII) held a live streamed event on July 10, 2024, hosted by American Idol winner, multi-platinum recording artist and actress Jordin Sparks featuring the inspiring stories of three people whose lives were changed by their local Goodwill organizations.

Celebrating People with Disabilities

Person in a wheelchair sits at a bright home office desk with a laptop, books, and plants nearby.

Each July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities and advocate for a more inclusive world. Local Goodwill organizations play an important role in ensuring people with disabilities can develop skills, access meaningful employment, and achieve their career goals.

Something Old, Something New, Something Special Found at Goodwill

White lace wedding dress on a dress form in a thrift shop display

Wedding season is such a special time, with flowers in bloom and love in the air. Wedding celebrations are full of memories to treasure, and it’s rare to have all of your loved ones in the same place to support and celebrate you. Traditions are also part of what makes weddings special. The “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” tradition has been a way for brides to manifest good luck on their wedding day while also getting creative.

House Proposes Deep Cuts to Workforce in Funding Bill

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

Recently, the House Appropriations Committee voted to advance its Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education appropriations bill. The annual spending measure proposes funding levels for many of the federal workforce development programs that help support the training and employment services offered by local Goodwill organizations.

Working a Job You Dislike

Woman seated at a desk, resting her chin on her hand while using a laptop.

Do you currently have a job that you dread attending? Perhaps, you have troublesome co-workers or face long hours? Maybe you are consistently given the task of completing large and complex projects without adequate assistance? Whatever the case, this article delves into what could be contributing to this negative professional reality and offers techniques for how to respond.

Summer Picnic Inspiration With Goodwill Finds

Young woman taking a selfie at a garden picnic with yellow flowers in the background

Spending extra time outdoors in the sunshine is one of the best things about summer. When it’s nice out, I’ll find any excuse to get outside — walks, runs or reading in the park. I love throwing together a casual picnic, whether it’s just for me or for a group of friends. Getting people together in the fresh air feels extra special, and when you can do it in a park, you can host without the hassle of getting your home cleaned up and ready for guests.

My Goodwill Story: Christopher

Smiling Goodwill employee in a black polo and cap stands in a warehouse with blue sorting bins and pallets.

As we celebrate the 4th of July, we’re surrounded by American flags, fireworks and barbeques. However, independence means a lot more for those who have struggled hard to achieve it.  That was the case for Christopher. After involvement with the justice system, he had a difficult time finding employment. He wanted so badly to be independent but found that his background was still a barrier.  

Thrifting Brave Color Combinations for Pride Month

Rainbow tie-dye and striped garments on hangers in a storefront window.

June is Pride Month, a reminder to be brave, stay authentic even when it goes against the mainstream and have fun while expressing yourself. One of the best ways to do these things is through what you wear and how you choose to style yourself. Oftentimes, finding a look or an experience that feels truly “you” can take some experimenting. That’s where shopping at Goodwill can come in.

Modernizing the Workforce System

Two men collaborate at a computer in a modern coworking space; one sits at a desk while the other stands nearby.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is due for reauthorization. WIOA is the primary federal workforce development law. It supports a nationwide network of one-stop career centers through which job seekers receive career services and training opportunities, including job search assistance, education, supportive services, and on-the-job training.

Finally, A No-Fail Gift Idea For Father’s Day

Stack of paperback thriller novels on a white shelf, dominated by James Patterson titles.

Father’s Day is coming up and with it the excuse to spoil the fathers and father figures in our lives. At least in my experience, shopping for dad can be difficult. Oftentimes it’s “the thought that counts” that rings truer than a gift he’ll use forever.

Gracefully Dealing with 3 Common Issues in the Workplace

Man in a blue polo and a woman with curly hair discuss across a desk with a tablet in a bright office.

This blog will address several common issues encountered by employees in the workplace and offer a few suggestions as to the best possible responses. If you’re interested in learning more about what can cause these difficulties, the effect they may have on you at work and how to react professionally, continue reading.

My Goodwill Story – William 

Older man with white hair and glasses sits at a desk, using a desktop computer in an office.

In the spirit of Older Americans Month, we honor the inspiring story of William, whose life took a remarkable turn upon walking into the Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (Fort Myers). William’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of community support and personal determination.