How Secondhand Sunday Can Transform Your Holiday Planning

Hand arranging felt Christmas trees on a decorative tray in a cozy living room

It’s hard to believe the holiday season is here! Sometimes that holiday stress can mean taking time away from loved ones to shop sales at retail stores that kick off all throughout the holidays. But it doesn’t need to be that way. What if there was another way to shop that could be more meaningful- more affordable and sustainable?

My Goodwill Story – Elijah

A person wearing glasses operates a red heat-press mounted on a table, positioning fabric for a transfer in a small workshop.

Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of Native peoples across the country. It’s also a moment to recognize the strength and resilience that define so many Native stories, like Elijah’s. 

Growing Your Education, Skills and Experience

Young woman in an orange jacket and cap uses a handheld barcode scanner at an industrial workstation.

This blog is part four of our look at the “American Opportunity Survey”. In this post, we cover the reasons why the “skills gap” is detrimental to young individuals entering the workforce and discusses what can be done in response by today’s youth. If you’re interested in learning more, keep reading.

Host A Friendsgiving To Remember With Cute DIY Autumnal Candlemaking

Orange flower-shaped candle holder with a white candle inside, held by a hand among green tropical leaves.

Thanksgiving might be all about the food, but Friendsgiving is the perfect time to catch up with friends. Popular enough to become its own (unofficial) holiday, Friendsgiving kicks off the holiday season as friends, new and old, gather together over delicious food while reminiscing on memories together.

My Goodwill Story – Abbi

Smiling service member in dress uniform with folded cap, posed in front of the U.S. flag.

Veterans Day is a time to honor the courage, sacrifice and service of those who have worn a uniform of the U.S. military. It’s also a moment to reflect on the paths that lead individuals to serve as well. Paths that are often shaped by resilience, community and a desire to make a difference. For Abbi, her journey to enlisting in the Air Force began not with certainty, but with struggle.

My Goodwill Story – Dajhaun

Man in a black hoodie holds keys in one hand and documents in the other indoors.

When Dajhaun first walked through the doors of Goodwill Industries of Kentucky (Louisville), he wasn’t sure where life was headed. He joined Young Adult Opportunity Campus’s “The Spot” program with questions about his future and doubts about his own potential. But what he found there was more than just a program, it was a community that believed in him before he fully believed in himself. 

How to Throw a Halloween Party on a Budget

Open book above a bundle of wrapped colorful books against a brick wall.

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

Two women sit at desktop computers in a training room, smiling while working.

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

Two men in blue Goodwill vests stand in a store; one holds a certificate folder and the other a motivational card.

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

Two women in Halloween costumes stand against a purple smoky background. One wears a pink princess dress and crown, the other a black witch costume with a hat.

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.