Managing Finances If You Have an Irregular Income

If you’re one of the millions of Americans with an irregular income, then you know that managing your finances can be a challenge. Whether you’re a small business owner, an employee with fluctuating hours, someone who works on commission, a seasonal worker, or wait staff whose income depends on tips, you’ve probably faced weeks and months when it was difficult to make ends meet.

Plan Your DIY Valentine’s Day with Goodwill

Beige sweater with a dotted heart pattern and mint pants, holding a string of paper hearts.

I don’t think of local Goodwill organizations as a thrift store anymore. Instead, it’s a constantly-refreshed supply shop where I can find foundation pieces to accent for customized clothing and details to round out my home decor.

Top 3 DIY Valentine's Day Gift and Décor Ideas

Valentine’s Day is coming up! Are you ready to find something sweet? Thrift something special with some help from Goodwill. We compiled a list of some new ideas to help inspire your Valentine’s Day. Heart Wreath DIY Make a lovely heart wreath with some thrifted puzzle pieces! Direct URL to YouTube video. Painted Candy Jars […]

Let’s Make A Deal

Once again, we find ourselves in a situation where the government is open at the time of this writing and the government may be closed by the time you read this. But the Senate has reached an agreement and a deal is on the table for the House to accept. What’s the deal?

My Story: Todd Parker

Smiling postal worker in a blue polo shirt leaning on a cart in a busy mailroom.

Goodwill means more to me than a paycheck. It’s where I have grown and built my confidence for nearly 20 years. I learned by working at my local Goodwill to deal with life and get along with people. I’ve found a place where I’m comfortable. And I’ve found peace at work and happiness.

Considering the Costs and Opportunities of College

Everyone knows that college is expensive. The good news is, there are many different education options at different price points. And even if you find that earning a four-year degree from a private college makes the most sense for your career goals, chances are you can find some sort of financial assistance to help manage the cost.

Sneaky Work-Safe Style

Blue striped dress with a gathered floral panel at the bodice front.

Work attire. What a phrase. If it makes you cringe slightly, then you’re not alone. Finding clothing that’s professional and still lets you feel like yourself —work-safe style, we’ll call it—can be super tricky. Oftentimes we end up sticking with boring slacks and button-down tops because dressing for your 9-5 isn’t always inspiring. Today, though, we’re going to look at how a few thrifty shoppers infused their work-wears and environment with touches of their own personality to brighten up the daily grind. So, go punch in and grab your coffee…let’s get to work!

State of the Union Address Offers Opportunities to Advocate

President Trump delivered his first official State of the Union (SOTU) address, although he previously spoke to a joint session of Congress in the weeks following his inauguration. While the speech did not include much substantive detail around the proposals put forth, the President did touch upon a number of specific areas of interest to Goodwill and the people we serve.

Can I Earn a Living through the Gig Economy?

The gig economy refers to short-term jobs and opportunities that enable you to work for yourself rather than an employer. Websites and apps like Uber, TaskRabbit, Airbnb and Fiverr connect people who have a need with those who have goods or services to offer. The gig economy can certainly offer unique ways to earn money, but before you dive in head first, make sure you understand the reality of its earning potential and the related expenses and risks.

Add a Pop! To Your Look with Printed Pants

Smiling woman in a purple hijab, beige coat, white sweater, and plaid blue-green pants.

Looking down the shirt racks while I’m shopping, pattern after pattern jumps out at me. Over in the pants section, though…not so much. Why is it that we tend to be more comfortable with basic, neutral pants and prints up on top? Patterned pants do tend to sneak a little more into summery looks, but I’d love to challenge that notion today by highlighting some incredible thrifted ensembles that totally win with prints on the bottom. Let’s see how a few fashionistas wear designs below the waist…

The Funding Games

Fortunately, the recent government shutdown was short-lived and had a minimal impact on federal workers. However, funding battles still continue and early signs are pointing to another government shutdown may take place following the February 8th expiration of the latest continuing resolution (or stopgap funding bill).

My Story: Stetson Odom

When I first moved to Panama City, I went to go check out the local Goodwill store and little did I know that was going to be the start of my life. As I was leaving, I saw a sign about Goodwill offering free GED classes. I had dropped out of high school because of testing anxiety and other issues. As a result, I had a hard time getting a job. In fact, I have never even had a job before. Here in front of me was a sign – a sign that I needed to do something with my life.