Recently named Goodwill Achiever of the Year, Michael Blanton is a testament of hope to those looking to overcome obstacles and recreate their lives. When he was released from prison with no place to go and no money, Michael had a long road ahead of him.
As we reflect on the things for which we are thankful during this holiday season, we at Goodwill Industries International are giving thanks for you — our advocates.
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico has partnered with Albuquerque Public Schools for a new offering of its special education program. The unique program, called Shop, allows students to fix old or damaged furniture found at Goodwill and other local stores and refurbish it with creative and colorful designs.
READ MORE from Students with Autism are Refurbishing Furniture in Albuquerque
As we transition into the chillier months of the fall and winter seasons, it's a great time to get creative with our thrifting. Check out these three fantastic ways you can keep your fashion fresh during the colder months, especially as we continue to persevere through the pandemic.
For many American workers, participation in an apprenticeship program offers an invaluable pathway to a rewarding career with good wages. Local Goodwill® organizations have a long history of partnering with employers and community colleges to facilitate innovative apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. These structured earn-and-learn models combine occupational training, classroom instruction, access to support services, and opportunities for paid work experience with employers that prepare program participants, particularly those facing barriers to employment, for long-term career success.
READ MORE from Apprenticeships Provide a Pathway to Rebuilding America
From the minister who hired individuals to mend, and repair used goods, to the servicemen and women who put their lives on the line to protect the freedom, democracy, rights, and privileges of our great country, these individuals are an integral part to a community’s ability to meet the needs of the most vulnerable. Within this group, is Kevin Ricksy.
Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the service and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans and military family members. President Joe Biden recently signed a proclamation designating November as National Veterans and Military Families Month. “To those who serve and those that serve alongside them — their families and caregivers — we owe a debt we can never fully repay,” said Biden. “We as a nation have a sacred obligation to properly equip and prepare our troops when we send them in to harm’s way and to support them and their families, both while they are deployed and when they return home.”
READ MORE from Recognizing Veterans and Military Families in November
For some teenagers with disabilities, it can be hard to stay motivated throughout high school, especially if they’re unsure what comes next. Essex High School in Vermont’s Employment Program gives students who have a disability a chance to be a part of the workforce while still in school. Goodwill stores are one of the places these students try out different jobs.
READ MORE from 15 Years of Helping Teens with Disabilities Find Jobs in Vermont
Final passage of the bipartisan infrastructure framework and House passage of the Build Back Better reconciliation bill appear to be in sight — at least at the time of this writing. If the House passes the bipartisan infrastructure bill without any changes, it will head to the President for his signature.
READ MORE from Momentum for Build Back Better is Still Building
While considered an “off” year, every election is important and provides an opportunity to be an active participant in our democracy. This year, New Jersey and Virginia will hold regularly scheduled elections for governor. Other state executive offices up for election include lieutenant gubernatorial seats and an attorney general seat. Including down-ballot races, there are seven state executive offices up for election across four states in 2021.
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