My Story: Sheila Gilmore

Black woman in a blue Goodwill vest stands beside the American flag inside a Goodwill facility.

After 20 years of military service and earning a four-year degree, Sheila Gilmore never imagined it would be difficult to get a job. She had a 15-year employment gap on her resume, which reflected the time she was a stay-at-home mom, and the journey to find employment was rocky, but never gave up on her job search. Her perseverance as well as her dedication and passion for serving others helped her achieve her career goals despite the set backs.

Celebrating American Democracy: Let’s Get #VoteReady!

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

On Tuesday November 8, millions of Americans will head to the polls to cast their ballots, effectively electing all 435 House of Representatives members, 34 senators, 36 governors, and many more elected officials. Your vote is your voice and your power. Some elections have been decided by only six votes.

DIY Halloween Costume Inspiration for Your Four-Legged Friends

Group of small dogs in Halloween costumes, including a pumpkin, a ghost, and a devil, posed on a wooden floor.

It’s never too early to start thinking about what you might dress up as for Halloween, especially if your goal is to thrift and DIY costumes for you and your furry friends. There are so many options to show off your costume look – while on a walk around town trick-or-treating with little kids, giving out candy at your own home, or at a neighborhood pet parade.

Commerce Department Summit Highlights Community Investments and Partnerships

Capitol building with dome, green lawns, and a sunrise sky.

The U.S. Department of Commerce recently hosted the first national summit of community organizations to promote the relaunch of the department’s Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo spoke at the event and urged community-based organizations to take an active role in implementing major new federal investments in infrastructure, broadband, digital equity, and manufacturing in their communities.

Goodwill Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Chalkboard poster for National Disability Employment Awareness Month showing an equity equation with photos and a lightbulb.

Goodwill Industries International is proud to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).  In his Presidential Proclamation, President Biden urged Americans to embrace the talents and skills that workers with disabilities bring to the workplace.

My Story: Raquel Hernandez-Gonzalez

Smiling woman in a brown shearling coat stands in front of a glass door bearing the Goodwill logo.

Raquel has been focused on navigating the new changes in her life. Moving to the United States from the Dominican Republic, Raquel often faces language barriers. After gathering all the resources and utilizing the services Goodwill was able to provide to her, Raquel found a permanent, full-time job.

Lawmakers Approve Stopgap Funding Bill

U.S. Capitol dome and Capitol Building against a blue sky

With just hours to spare before the midnight deadline that would have shut down much of the federal government, President Biden signed into law a short-term funding bill for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023. The stopgap measure, known as a Continuing Resolution, funds the government at current levels of spending until December 16.

Cozy Fall Décor Inspiration for the Thrifty Shopper

Cozy farmhouse fireplace mantel decorated with pumpkins, floral arrangements, a basket, and a welcome ladder in autumn decor

There’s something magic about cozy season. It’s the cool down from a summer of sunshine and fun! I find the best way to enter a season is to welcome it, from a change in wardrobe to a change in home aesthetic. With tons of signs literally saying, “Hello Fall” and “Happy Autumn,” we’re in great shape to do so!

Goodwill Advancing Digital Inclusion

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

October 3 – 7 marks National Digital Inclusion Week 2022, a time to promote digital equity and advance essential digital skills, digital literacy, and affordable internet connections for people in need. It is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of community-based digital skills training and supportive services in tackling America’s digital divide.  

My Story: Kevin Kennedy

Worker in a yellow safety jacket sits on a forklift in a warehouse, giving a thumbs-up.

Kevin Kennedy found himself seeking a new beginning after having a poor work history and facing a recent struggle with a serious health issue. A trusted friend encouraged Kevin to apply to a Goodwill program that helps older adults get back into the workforce and build new skills.