Week 309

Positive post Sunday, January 29, 2023- Week 309. 

This week’s PPS can be summed up in one word, “Goodwill”.  However, I will share several words as I have a great deal of passion when it comes to Goodwill.  Although there are several definitions of goodwill including, friendly, helpful, or cooperative feelings or attitude and the established reputation of a business regarded as a quantifiable asset, there is only one definition of Goodwill (note the capital G) in southern California.

Goodwill Southern California (GSC) is best defined by our mission, “Transforming lives through the power of work”.  I say “our” because I have had the privilege of serving on the GSC Board of Directors for the past several years.  Yet it wasn’t until this past Friday that I attended my first grand opening celebration.  I was blessed to attend the grand opening at our Upland store (see photos attached).  Seeing how important the store is to the community and our employees inspired me to write this PPS.

Through my service at GSC, I have gained a broader appreciation for the deep and foundational value GSC provides in our communities throughout southern California.  My goal with this PPS is to share what I have learned and personally experienced so that, like me, you might see “Goodwill” in a different light, one that shines well beyond the place where we take our used goods.  

As an example, did you know that GSC employs nearly 3,000 workers, most with significant and challenging barriers to employment at our 80+ retail stores throughout Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.  Along with offering low-cost goods in our communities, GSC also reinvests revenues from these stores in the preparation and placement of thousands of individuals into sustainable employment at businesses throughout the three counties through programs and services such as career counseling, skills training and placement services.  

What warms my heart and motivates me to continue to serve and share our mission, are the countless success stories I have personally witnessed.  I have seen firsthand the lives of many with the greatest barriers to employment, including veterans, homeless, individuals with disabilities, at-risk youth, the those formerly incarcerated, transformed.  I have also met and listened intently to testimonies from those who have benefited from GSC services, some who have shared that their lives were saved by gaining purpose, meaning and increased self-worth through their newly found employment.  We call this the power of work.

I am so grateful to support an organization of leaders who are doing God’s work, helping those in need, recognizing that every person in our community has value and talent. We believe we can tap into the talent of unique populations and provide employment opportunities to anyone who wants to work.  There is so much more I can share but let me at least offer you the opportunity to visit our website where you or someone you know can seek help, you can see firsthand some of the life changing testimonies or if you feel moved like me, you can make a donation.  Here’s the link: Home – Goodwill Southern California (goodwillsocal.org).

In closing, I hope I have given you a much broader perspective on the definition of “Goodwill” and a snapshot of the life changing work at GSC.  Perhaps the next time you clean out your closet, pack up the car and head to Goodwill to donate your goods, you will take the time to walk into our retail store, engage with our wonderful employees, purchase something and make a donation.  I’m hopeful that, like me, you will be comforted knowing that your contribution helps create jobs for those employees, many of whom had significant barriers to employment.  Thank you!

How do you spread “Goodwill” throughout your community?

How do you help those in need in your community, giving them a hand up not a handout?