Category: The Goodwill Blog

For the fifth consecutive year, Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont (NC) is teaming up with the Charlotte Art League (CAL) to showcase the work of artists from the Goodwill’s Employment Skills Training program. This year’s ‘Color My Dreams’ exhibit, open daily through March 30, showcases more than 70 pieces of art including drawings, paintings and mosaics created by individuals with intellectual, physical and other disabilities.

READ MORE from NC Goodwill® Exhibit Showcases Artists with Disabilities

Sarah knew that she wanted to work, but wasn't sure where to start and was afraid employers wouldn't understand her disability. After her mom connected her to Goodwill, Sarah learned to identify her skills and target jobs that were well-suited for her. Her job coach helped her apply for and earn a job, and she now looks forward to growing in her position and challenging herself to do more as time goes on.

READ MORE from My Story: Sarah Carter

In 2010, Goodwills provided services to nearly 160,000 people who received Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and received over 112,000 referrals from TANF agencies. With the number of families living in poverty at an all-time high, Goodwill actively seeks opportunities to educate Congress and the public about our programs that assist this vulnerable population.

READ MORE from New TANF Provision to Address EBT Card Abuse Draws Praise, Raises Concerns

Shauna from Montgomery, AL, asks, “I’m a young mom and would like to go back to college. How can Goodwill help me?”

READ MORE from College Degrees Help Young Moms Advance Their Careers

Beginning in May, Goodwill Industries of Colorado Springs will launch a first-of-its-kind life skills program for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities called Possibilities, which will provide them opportunities to build the skills they need to succeed in everyday life in an engaging, hands-on environment.

READ MORE from Goodwill® Simulated Community to Help People with Disabilities Build Life Skills

Rafael was in New York City when the attacks on 9/11 took place, and later developed health problems and other challenges including PTSD, agoraphobia and depression. After spending time in prison, he found himself homeless and unable to find a job to get his life back on track. While living at a facility for individuals with psychological disabilities, he was referred to Goodwill for support finding a job. He started working two days a week at Goodwill, and is now working full-time and learning to help others instead of focusing on his own worries.

READ MORE from My Story: Rafael Munoz

The administration’s budget request, released last week, outlines a plan that proposes to avoid the automatic spending cuts required by the Budget Control Act that Congress passed last year. Under the proposal, the automatic cuts – some of which would affect federal investments that support local Goodwill agencies’ efforts to help people find jobs and advance in careers – would be avoided by cutting mandatory spending, and increasing tax revenue.

READ MORE from Deficit Reduction Has Implications for Goodwill®

Luanne from Sacramento, CA, asks "What online opportunities exist to obtain my GED diploma?"

READ MORE from Taking the GED? Check Out Online Study Options

Donation Match Game screenshotAttention parents and kids at heart! If you're looking for a fun and educational activity, be sure to check out Goodwill's free Donation Match Game (online and for the iPad). The interactive game, powered by Goodwill's Donate Movement, teaches kids about many of the different items you have in your home that can be donated or recycled.

READ MORE from Goodwill® Game Teaches Kids about Donating and Recycling

Vic started his adult life on the wrong track when he didn't complete high school and started selling drugs to make ends meet. He served time in prison, but thanks to parenting classes he took while incarcerated, he regained custody of his kids upon his release. He began working at Goodwill, where he has gradually been given more responsibilities. He is also taking advantage of financial strengthening classes, and is working towards completing his GED so he can be the best role model he can be for his children.

READ MORE from My Story: Vic King

This week, the Obama administration unveiled its budget request for FY 2013. Goodwill® is pleased to report that proposed federal funding remains steady for programs that support our mission. Read more about our priority issues below and click here (PDF) to view ourside-by-side comparison of FY 2012 appropriations to FY 2013 proposals. American Jobs Act (AJA) Obama’s plan proposes

READ MORE from Goodwill® Programs Fare Well under Federal Spending Plan

Martin from Roanoke, VA, asks, "How can certifications help me move up in my career, and what should I do to get started?"

READ MORE from Advance Your Career by Earning Certifications