A Look Inside the Current and Future Labor Market Trends Concerning Today’s Youth

This blog is part three of our look at the “American Opportunity Survey”. For this segment, we will focus on the nature of the current job market, along with what it does — or does not — have to offer to today’s youth. If you’re interested in learning more about this topic, continue reading

How to Throw a Halloween Party on a Budget

Let’s be real – Halloween parties hit different when you’re not broke afterward. While everyone else is dropping serious cash on single-use decorations and overpriced costumes, you’re about to serve looks AND save coins. This is your guide to throwing the most memorable Halloween bash without the financial hangover. Spoiler alert: Thrift shopping isn’t just budget-friendly, it’s literally the cheat code to the most creative, sustainable party ever.

Invest in Community-Driven Solutions to Bridge the Digital Divide

This week is National Digital Inclusion Week 2025, an annual event to spotlight the importance of digital equity and to advance essential digital skills, digital literacy, and affordable internet access for those who need it most. As the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence continues to reshape

My Goodwill Story – Jalen

During Digital Inclusion Week (October 6-10, 2025), we’re celebrating stories like Jalen’s — stories that show how access to digital tools, training and career support can open doors to opportunity.  Jalen started working at a Goodwill Industries of Arkansas (Little Rock) store in 2022. While he was an employee, he connected with his career navigator and began building a plan for his future. He enrolled in several Goodwill Academy courses, earning certificates that strengthened his résumé and expanded his skill set. Those included his CPR/First Aid certification and the Goodwill Digital Career Accelerator certificate. 

Showdown over the Shutdown Begins

After months of uncertainty regarding the continuation of federal agency funding into the new fiscal year, the anticipated government shutdown has officially begun. On Tuesday, the Senate rejected both a House-passed Continuing Resolution (CR) that would have kept the government operational through November 21, and an alternative proposal from Senate Democrats. As a result, the government was forced to shut down when funding for the current fiscal year expired at midnight.

Good(will) Witches Thrift Their Halloween Costumes

Are you a good witch or a bad witch? I know I’m a Goodwill witch, every time. This Halloween comes just ahead of Wicked: For Good’s release, meaning all things Wicked-themed are going to be pop-u-lar! Whether you’re team Elphaba or team Galinda, there is so much costume inspiration within the story — enough for the whole family.

Employment Challenges of America’s Youth

As part two of our continuing blog series analyzing the findings of the Goodwill Industries International (GII) and McKinsey 2024 American Opportunity Survey results, this piece will focus on the numerous challenges faced by American youth when it comes to employment. Among other things, this article will look at the skills and experience gap of today’s young job seekers, consider the mental health struggles impacting individuals and explore other financial or environmental factors that contribute to keeping younger generations out of the job market and labor force entirely.

Major Reductions in Workforce Funding Proposed by House

This week, the House Appropriations Committee voted to advance its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 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.

My Goodwill Story – Kelly

September marks National Workforce Development Month and as the largest nonprofit workforce development agency in North America, we have a lot of reasons to celebrate. We see firsthand the impact that workforce development professionals have on the lives of people looking to find work or advance their careers. Take for instance, Kelly who came to Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee (Nashville) a few years ago. She had just been laid off and found herself in the constant cycle of applying to jobs without hearing back. She had already applied to more than 200 jobs by the time she came to Goodwill for support.  

Congress Returns from Summer Recess

Congress has returned to DC after a lengthy summer break. Goodwill organizations from around the country hosted members of their Congressional delegations and key committee staff, allowing them to see the Goodwill mission in action. Those conversations with employees and program participants will inform decisions lawmakers have to make in the weeks and months ahead.

Turn a New Page This National Read a Book Day 

Each year, National Read a Book Day kicks off the quieting down of summer into fall, a change of routine and a move into all things cozy. If you’re like me, hanging onto the last threads of summer vacation and not quite ready to dive into all things pumpkin spice, this bookish holiday on September 6th is a great way to ease into the transition of the seasons, take a break from the never-ending screen time and crack open a book.  

Examining the Causes and Effects of Youth Unemployment

This post will cover the status of youth unemployment in 2025. Included is information pertaining to the results of youth unemployment and the effect of said joblessness on society. We will also take a look at some of the prevailing opinions held by this population regarding the future. If you are interested in learning more about the unique characteristics of this group and the challenges relating to this topic, please continue reading.