2018 State of the States

While Congress is still wrangling with budget and appropriations and passing legislation before focusing on the mid-term elections, state and local governments are hard at work as well, creating more opportunities to engage at the state level. Nearly every one of the nation’s Governors have provided their state of the state addresses to their constituents. Job creation and the skills gap was a major theme in all of the speeches, affirming that the important work of local Goodwills in providing job training and workforce development to those who face challenges to employment.

My Story: Melissa Lambright

At almost 60 years old, I was laid off after 15 years with my previous company. With no GED, college or technical training plus my severe health problems, I had trouble finding a new job. One day, I discovered that Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids had a technical training program that could lead to employment in a call center. I applied and was accepted into the program. I am now able to work from home 4 days a week, which helps limit movement and pain for my disability. Best of all, both my husband and I now have health insurance. I love my job, they care about me as a person and I have great co-workers. I am so thankful for how much my life has improved since discovering the training program at my local Goodwill. I never would have guessed things would have turned out so well.

3 Craft Ideas for a Cozy Cabin Weekend

I’d say there’s just enough time for one last weekend away at the ski slopes or an ice fishing cabin before the winter disappears, so let’s make it the best it can possibly be! Here are a few projects that can help you enjoy a cozy cabin weekend away (or help you create that same comfy feeling at home). Local Goodwill organizations helps support services for millions of people annually, and delivers positive social and environmental outcomes for the global community, so grab your project supplies at your local Goodwill to make your dollars go a little bit further!

The Administration’s Proposal

An estimated six million people make proposals around Valentine’s Day, and this week President Trump issued a proposal of his own, the Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) budget proposal.

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

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

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

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.