Project Overcome Helps Individuals Learn Interview Skills after Incarceration

April is Second Chance Month, and Goodwill Industries International is shining a light on some of the work we are doing to help people impacted by the criminal justice system. Recently, Goodwill teamed with Accenture to develop an innovative virtual experience called Project Overcome. The experience is designed specifically for people impacted by the criminal justice system who want to enter the workforce.

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How to Mix & Match Prints this Spring

When you start trying to pair prints, sometimes it might seem that your attempted ensemble is yelling at you! That may be because you’re pairing two prints that are too similar, instead of playing with proportions. You don’t have to shy away from blending prints in the same family, simply pair a small version with a bigger one. You can also look at the boldness of the pattern, a small subtle plaid can pair nicely with a bolder buffalo check pattern. We were wowed when Stacee pulled together this effortless spring ensemble by matching this colorful striped scarf with the tiny blue stripes on this gorgeous midi dress. It’s a great example of how big and small versions of the same print can complement one another! Then, she highlighted the other beautiful bright shades of the scarf by adding lively orange shoes and a pink crossbody bag to pull the entire look together!

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President Proclaims April as Second Chance Month

President Joe Biden recently issued a proclamation marking April as Second Chance Month, a time to raise awareness of the challenges facing people with criminal backgrounds and to spotlight the important work being done by community-based organizations like Goodwill® to empower second chance individuals to achieve career and life success.

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My Story: Alicia Murphy

Alicia Murphy came to Goodwill seeking her GED to provide new opportunities for her family. A young mother of two children, Alicia had dropped out of high school when she was 17 and had held several jobs including warehouse and waitressing positions, but what she really wanted was financial stability. Working in a warehouse was draining her both mentally and physically— and she knew she needed to further her education in order to kick start her career. Alicia had the drive to succeed, but like many people lacking education and work experience, she felt lost. She strived for independence, financial stability, and her own place to live.

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White House Focuses on Jobs and Infrastructure

Following the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act, the Biden Administration has turned to other economic recovery measures with the unveiling of the American Jobs Plan. While a long way from actually becoming law, the $2.25 trillion proposal focuses on transportation, caregiving, manufacturing, housing, schools, water, broadband, and the power grid. A second package, planned for release in the coming weeks, could top $1 trillion and expand social policies.

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Reflecting on Women’s History Month

While celebrating the contributions made by women to all fabrics of life during Women’s History Month, it is troubling to do so at a time when the historic gains that women have made in the workforce are becoming history. Prior to the pandemic, unemployment rates for women and men were fairly equal.  However, as the virus raged on, and schools and businesses closed, there was a disparate impact on women in the workforce. According to the National Women’s Law Center, female workforce participation has already dropped to 57%—the lowest level since 1988.

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DIY: 6 Ways to Create Unique Flower Planters from Your Upcycled Items

Spring is here!  That means it’s time to get your garden spaces—both indoors and out—-looking good. Here’s a super easy, fun activity that honors Mother Nature and her many talents: upcycle items into unique planters. These fun and funky containers will make your herbs, flowers and other plants become even more charming!

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