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Tag: Alberta
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Decluttering & donating with your little festive friend!
It’s that time of year when Santa’s little elf friend returns from the North Pole for a month of shenanigans and no good throughout your house. We know it can be challenging to come up with new ideas for your little jolly pal’s adventures, so we’re here to offer an idea, turning the no in ‘no good’ into a heartwarming opportunity for GOOD. This year, let your mischievous elf embark on a mission of kindness by collecting things for donation to Goodwill. It’s a twist on the traditional antics, encouraging your child to think about giving and let’s be honest…decluttering!
Decluttering & donating with your little festive friend! 3 How it works
Place your merry little minion with a box or bag and print off the card above, or grab one at any of our retail locations (while supplies lasts). Encourage your children to make a little extra space in their rooms, by having them go through and collect items they might no longer be using, have out gown or have seen better days. The next time you’re out and about, swing by one of out many donation centres where our Goodwill elves will be happy to accept your donation. All donations to Goodwill have an impact on our mission of supporting Albertans with disabilities to find and gain meaningful employment.
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How does thrifting fit into Christmas?
Some might look at Christmas and feel things need to be NEW, like wrapping paper, gifts, décor, etc. We’re here to tell you, don’t sleep on the thrift stores! When it comes to décor, wrapping paper, Christmas trees, lights and quite literally everything else… You just never know what you’ll find at Goodwill! But why? You might ask, and to that we say… Why not?
How does thrifting fit into Christmas? 11 Budget Friendly
Going into the holidays is often a bit daunting, the thought of having or wanting to buy that new ugly sweater for your office party, wrapping paper, ornaments, lights, festive food, the list goes on. You might not be able to find a turkey here, but we can help you with nearly everything else!
How does thrifting fit into Christmas? 12 Unique and timeless
One of the enchanting aspects of thrifting is the discovery of unique and timeless items that add character to your holiday décor. Thrift stores are treasure troves of vintage ornaments, holiday-themed dishware, and other charming decorations that you can’t find anywhere else. By choosing preloved items, you’re not only reducing waste but also creating a one-of-a-kind holiday ambiance.
How does thrifting fit into Christmas? 13 Environmental Impact
Speaking of reducing waste, the environmental toll of holiday consumerism is a growing concern. By thrifting at Goodwill, you’re reusing items that are already in circulation. You help reduce the demand for new manufacturing and minimize waste. You might think “Yeah, OK, but what difference does ONE person make?” collectively, these individual choices create a significant impact. When we choose thrifted, or recycled goods over brand-new items, we’re collectively lessening the carbon footprint and waste generated during the holiday season. Every act of thrift shopping is a step towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
How does thrifting fit into Christmas? 14 Supporting a Charitable Cause
When you shop at Goodwill Industries of Alberta, you’re not just saving money; you’re also supporting our mission. For the past 60 years, we have been working to empower Albertans with disabilities through the power of work and the dignity of a job. To learn more about the programs you’re supporting, visit our Mission Programs page. The act of giving is a core element to the holiday season, and what better way to do so than by contributing to a charitable cause.
How does thrifting fit into Christmas? 15 Incorporating thrifting into your Christmas celebrations is a meaningful way to make the season more sustainable, budget-friendly, and personal. From finding unique decor and gifts to reducing your environmental footprint and supporting charitable organizations, thrifting aligns perfectly with the core values of the holiday season. This Christmas, consider the magic of second-hand treasures, and let your celebrations be not only merry and bright but also conscious and giving. Thank you for supporting our mission. We wish you a very happy & healthy holiday season.
How does thrifting fit into Christmas? 16 -
Shopping Tax Free Since 1963
As a Non-Profit, social enterprise, Goodwill has been making an impact in Alberta fir 60 years. When you shop or donate at Goodwill, GOOD things happen:
- You create employment opportunities for those with disabilities, giving people a purpose through the power of work.
- You successfully divert items from the landfill giving regular household items, clothes or otherwise, a second chance at a new life, a new beginning.
- Finally (and here’s the most important factor when it comes to YOUR wallet), you DO NOT pay any GST on used items!
That’s right, when you shop at Goodwill, our store is GST-FREE and has been since 1963!
Who doesn’t love the thrill of finding hidden treasures while shopping on a budget?
Shopping Tax Free Since 1963 20 What is Tax-Free Shopping at Goodwill?
Unlike traditional retail stores, Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that operates on a mission to provide employment opportunities and vocational services to individuals with barriers to employment. As a result of its charitable status, Goodwill stores are exempt from charging sales tax on most of the items they sell.
Benefits of Shopping Tax Free at Goodwill
- Save Money: Shopping tax-free at Goodwill means you don’t have to worry about paying additional tax, allowing you to stretch your budget further and find even more amazing deals.
- Unique Finds: Goodwill stores receive a constant influx of donations from the community, making each visit an exciting treasure hunt. You’re likely to stumble upon one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Support a Good Cause: By shopping at Goodwill, you directly contribute to their mission of helping people with disabilities or barriers in your community find jobs and develop valuable work skills. Your purchases make a positive impact on people’s lives.
Shopping Tax Free Since 1963 21 Tips for Tax-Free Shopping at Goodwill
- Shop Smartly: Goodwill retail stores receive new items daily, so frequent visits can yield different finds. Keep an open mind and be patient while browsing through the store’s various sections.
- Bring a Donation: One way to give back to the community is by bringing items to donate when you shop.
- Join Rewards Programs: Goodwill offers rewards programs or loyalty cards. Signing up can provide you with exclusive discounts and early access to sales, maximizing your savings potential.
- Focus on Quality: While Goodwill offers low prices, it’s essential to focus on the quality of the items you purchase. Check for any defects or damage to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Shopping tax-free at Goodwill is an excellent way to find budget-friendly treasures while supporting a charitable cause. With unique finds, no sales tax, and the chance to positively impact your community, it’s no wonder why Goodwill has become a go-to destination for thrifty shoppers. So, head to your local Goodwill store, armed with these tips, and embark on a tax-free shopping adventure that will both delight and give back to those in need. Happy shopping!
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Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies
Do you ever feel like your day-to-day has become a never-ending cycle of work, eat, sleep, and repeat? If so, it’s time to shake up your summer with a new hobby or passion project to help you unwind and escape your mundane daily routine. Whether it’s to connect with others or embrace some much-needed “me time,” Goodwill thrift stores are here to help you kickstart a new project at an affordable price! This guide has everything you need to explore six exciting hobbies to ignite your creativity and passion. Time to begin the treasure hunt! One of the best things about starting a new hobby is exploring the many Goodwill thrift stores across Alberta to find the perfect supplies and resources. The hunt can be so much fun. You might become an expert thrifter and forget all about the hobby you wanted to pursue in the first place. But don’t worry, this Goodwill Guide has got you covered with a map that takes you from start to finish, so you can easily navigate your way to your new favorite hobby.
- Capture the Moments and Craft the Memories
- Time to Mix it up
- Sew Much Yarn!
- Game on with Goodwill
- Secondhand Stories
- Score Some Summer Fun
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 30 Capture the Moments and Craft the Memories
Don’t let your summer adventures fade away into the digital abyss! Unleash your crafting skills and embark on the journey of creating a vibrant scrapbook that perfectly captures the essence of your summer. Visit Goodwill to score all the necessary tools – scissors, glue, and a treasure trove of scrapbooking
materials – and get to work on your personalized masterpiece. If you’re not feeling particularly DIY-inclined, spruce up your living space with some funky picture frames that will give your walls life and personality. Your walls will thank you for the instant upgrade!
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 31 Time to Mix it up
Don’t let rainy days or scorching heat get you down! Instead, step into the kitchen and create some gourmet delights. Baking is the perfect activity when the weather just won’t cooperate, or try having some fondue fun on a chilly summer day. It’s a great way to gather family and friends in the kitchen, or if you prefer, an excellent excuse to indulge in all the treats you want… just make sure the cookie dough makes it to the oven! Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? So, get ready to mix, measure, and bake your way to some delicious treats. Whether you’re looking to bond with loved ones or satisfy your sweet tooth solo, you can never go wrong with some baking.
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 32 Sew Much Yarn!
Time to sit back, relax, and unwind with a ball of yarn and some needlework. Don’t let those endless loops of your favorite show go to waste. Try adding some crafting to your binge-watching routine and have something to show for all those hours of dedication. A hobby that keeps your hands busy and your
mind relaxed. By the time you finish your project, you’ll know the show’s plot better than the writers themselves!
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 33 Game on with Goodwill
Next time you find yourself saying “I’m bored,” follow it up with ‘games’ and head to Goodwill to discover a vast array of treasures, from rare finds to beloved classics that’ll keep your crew entertained for hours on end. Don’t underestimate the power of a good card deck – with the right tricks, you will be the champion of game night!
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 34 Secondhand Stories
Life’s unpredictable twists and turns can sometimes make it feel like you’re living in a poorly-written psychological thriller. A good book can provide a much-needed escape as you dive into a world with a plotline that actually makes sense! Head to your local Goodwill and hunt for a book that catches your eye. Someone else’s old favorite book can become your new escape. As the summer sun sets, grab your book and get cozy. Who needs a summer fling when you have a great story to fall for?
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 35 Score Some Summer Fun
Unleash your inner athlete and soak up the summer sun with the help of Goodwill! With endless options, you can serve up some fun with tennis, swing into action with golf, or glide into the sunset on rollerblades. Get the ball rolling and pick up all the gear you need and let the games begin!
Hobby Helper: The Goodwill Guide to Six Summer Hobbies 36 Get ready to shake up your summer with Goodwill! From crafting scrapbooks to baking tasty treats, exploring secondhand stories to unleashing your inner athlete, we have got you covered. So, find your escape in a world of creativity or some friendly competition. Make this summer unforgettable with the help of Goodwill.
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Notice of the 2023 Annual General Meeting
This is a notice for the Goodwill Industries of Alberta Board Members.
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Society will be taking place on Friday, June 2, 2023 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at Johnsons Cafe in the Hotel Selkirk at Fort Edmonton Park.
The purpose of the meeting is:
To approve the minutes from the 2022 AGM.
Receive financial statements for 2022.
Appoint the auditors for 2023.
Elect Directors.
By Order of the board, Michele Wallace, Executive Assistant to the President/CEO and Board of Directors.DATE: Friday, June 2, 2023
TIME: 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM
LOCATION: 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 4P3
PLACE: Johnsons Cafe in the Hotel Selkirk @ Fort Edmonton Park, Edmonton, AB and/or via Microsoft TEAMs Meeting
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Goodwill Week 2023
What is Goodwill Week?
Goodwill Week is an annual event celebrated by Goodwill Industries of Alberta, a nonprofit organization providing job training, employment placement services, and other community-based programs for people with disabilities or barriers to the workplace.
In Alberta, Goodwill Week is observed in the first week of May. This is a time to recognize the contributions of its supporters and volunteers, as well as the achievements of the people we serve.
In 1902 Methodist minister Edgar J. Helms founded the first Goodwill in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1902. Helms had the idea of collecting unwanted items from wealthy neighborhoods and using the proceeds from their sale to fund job training programs for people in need. Today, Goodwill Industries International has grown into a global organization with over 160 independent, community-based organizations around the world.
Since inception in 1963, Goodwill Industries of Alberta has grown into one of the largest and most respected social enterprises in the province. Goodwill Industries of Alberta operates 15 retail stores and 27 donation centers, employing about 1,000 people. The organization also provides training and employment programs, such as job coaching, resume writing, and interview skills workshops, to over thousands of Albertans each year.
CISN Country morning show Matt Debeurs and Chris Scheetz Events
During Goodwill Week, a variety of events and activities take place to raise awareness of its programs, celebrating the contributions of its supporters and volunteers. These events include:
- Proclamations: Mayors from across the province recognize the positive impact Goodwill makes each and every year in Alberta.
- Achievement Celebrations: Recognizing the achievements of the people who work at and participate in Goodwill Industries of Alberta’s training and employment programs. Participants are invited to a special event where they can share their stories of success and receive recognition for their hard work.
- Mission Success: Stories from across the social enterprise, sharing the success and value of Goodwill in Alberta.
- Donor Appreciation: Recognizing the individuals and businesses that donate items to Goodwill Industries of Alberta.
- Volunteer Recognition: These are the achievements of the people who have participated in Goodwill Industries of Alberta’s training and employment programs. Participants are invited to a special event where stories are shared, of success and while receiving recognition for their hard work.
In addition to the events and activities mentioned earlier, there are also several landmarks in Alberta that participate in Goodwill Week by lighting up BLUE, which is the official color of Goodwill Industries of Alberta.
Goodwill Week 2023 40 - The Calgary Tower and the Reconciliation Bridge is lit blue on May 3.
- The City Centre 2000 Sundial in Grande Prairie is also lit blue from May 1-5.
- In Edmonton, the High Level Bridge is lit blue on May 9th.
These landmarks play an important role in raising awareness of Goodwill Week and the work of Goodwill Industries of Alberta. The blue lighting serves as a symbol of support for the organization and its mission to provide job training and employment services to individuals who face barriers to employment.
The lighting also serves as a reminder of the contributions made by supporters and volunteers, as well as the achievements of the people who have participated in Goodwill Industries of Alberta’s programs.
CTV Emily Olsen donating to Goodwill Donating
Donating to Goodwill Industries of Alberta is an important way to support our organization’s mission and the community. By donating gently used items such as clothing, furniture, and electronics, individuals can help Goodwill provide job training and employment services to Albertans who face barriers to employment.
Donating to Goodwill also has a positive impact on the environment by keeping items out of landfills and reducing waste. Goodwill Industries of Alberta is promoting sustainability creating a more environmentally friendly future by giving items a second home.
Goodwill Week is an important time to highlight the impact of donations and to encourage people to give back to their community. Whether it’s through donating items or volunteering time, everyone can play a role in supporting the work of Goodwill Industries of Alberta.
60 Years of GOOD
Since 1963, Goodwill has helped provide meaningful employment for those with disabilities and barriers to the workforce.
From the very first Goodwill store on 103rd avenue in downtown Edmonton, to more than a dozen retail stores across Alberta, Goodwill is striving to make a positive impact in our province.
This is possible because of the amazing donations of clothing or used household items by people like you each and every year.
For 60 years, your donated shirt is giving people like Andre a chance to enhance their job skills.
For 60 years, your donated coffee mugs are giving people like Shelly an opportunity to contribute back to the community.
For 60 years, your donated records are giving people like Justin a chance to fulfill their dreams.
For 60 years, Goodwill is providing opportunity, service and GOOD.
Thank you for making a difference by donating to Goodwill and continuing our mission of helping those with disabilities and barriers an opportunity to find and gain meaningful employment.
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Enter to Win Two Tickets to Daddy’s Girl A Comedy, presented by Symons Valley Players
We have partnered with Symons Valley United Church to provide their costumes for their newest production: Daddy’s Girl A Comedy, presented by Symons Valley Players. Enter to win two tickets to their Thursday, May 11 showing at 7 p.m. Simply enter your information below!
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Goodwill Trail
Since 1963, Goodwill has helped provide meaningful employment for those with disabilities and barriers to the workforce.
From the very first Goodwill store on 103rd avenue in downtown Edmonton, to more than a dozen retail stores across Alberta, Goodwill is striving to make a positive impact in our province. This is made possible because of the amazing donations of clothing or used household items by people like you each and every year.
Today is a very special day as we continue to recognize the amazing work Goodwill has undertaken in our province. Goodwill has worked with the City of Edmonton to rename one of the largest arterial roads in Edmonton, ‘Calgary Trail’ to ‘Goodwill Trail’ in recognition of 60 years of service.
Dale Monaghan, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Alberta is excited beyond belief about the appreciation the City of Edmonton has shown to Goodwill.
We owe so much gratitude to the city and the wonderful donors from across the province, as we continue to enhance the lives of those with disabilities or barriers, through the power of work and the dignity of a job.
For 60 years, your donated shirt is giving people a chance to enhance their job skills.
For 60 years, your donated coffee mugs are giving people an opportunity to contribute back to the community.
For 60 years, your donated records are giving people a chance to fulfill their dreams.
For 60 years, Goodwill is providing opportunity, service and GOOD.
Thank you for making a difference by donating to Goodwill and continuing our mission of helping those with disabilities and barriers an opportunity to find and gain meaningful employment.
*Please note, this a celebration gesture and Calgary Trail will not officially be renamed, despite changing the name Calgary in the City of Edmonton for the better to Goodwill.
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The Bins Grand Opening
IT’S FINALLY HAPPENING!
After a full year of delays, we are EXCITED to announce that the AMAZING Calgary Impact Centre will be opening its doors to the public at 9 a.m. on April 15th, 2023.
Located at 2731 57 Ave. S.E. in Calgary, this shopping experience will be unique, as shoppers have a second chance to purchase items that have not been sold in retail stores, diverting them from landfills, by shopping by the pound!
What are the Goodwill Bins?
The Goodwill Bins, also known as the Goodwill Outlet Store, is a special type of Goodwill store that sells items by the pound rather than by the item. The Bins are essentially large warehouses where Goodwill stores send items that haven’t sold in their regular retail locations. These items are often in bulk and are not sorted, so you never know what you might find. You can expect to see everything from clothing and shoes to electronics, books, toys, and home goods.
Why are the Goodwill Bins so special?
The Goodwill Bins are special for several reasons. First, they offer incredibly low prices. Since items are sold by the pound, you can score items for as little as a few cents each. This makes it an excellent option for those on a tight budget or those looking for a great deal.
Secondly, the Bins offer a unique and exciting shopping experience. Unlike traditional retail stores, the Bins are unsorted, and you never know what you might find. It’s like a treasure hunt, and you never know what amazing items you might uncover.
Finally, shopping at Goodwill Bins is an eco-friendly option. By shopping at the Bins, you’re giving a second life to items that would otherwise end up in the repair, recycling or repurpose streams. Plus, you’re supporting Goodwill’s mission to provide job training and employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities or barriers.
The Bins Grand Opening 46 How to Shop the Bins
- The Layout
- Giant blue bins with various items are found throughout the Impact Centre Outlet Store.
- Get Ready to Dig!
- Shoppers line up a the designated yellow location marks.
- Ready and Go!
- Once the bin is placed, you will be given a signal to begin your treasure hunt.
- All Thrifted Out
- It’s time to weigh your items. You’ll pay by the pound.
- Do a Happy Dance!
- Happy shopping! Thank you for supporting Albertans with disabilities or barriers, to find and gain meaningful employment.
How to Make the Most of Your Goodwill Bins Shopping Experience
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You’ll be digging through piles of items, so it’s essential to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can move around in.
- Bring gloves. Since the items are unsorted, they can be dirty or dusty, so it’s a good idea to bring gloves to protect your hands.
- Bring your own bags or boxes. Goodwill Bins don’t provide bags or boxes, so it’s a good idea to bring your own reusable bags or boxes to carry your items.
- Keep an open mind. You never know what you might find at the Bins, so keep an open mind and be prepared to dig through piles of items to find the treasures.
- Check the items before purchasing. Since the items at the Bins are unsorted, it’s essential to check the items thoroughly before purchasing to ensure they’re in good condition and are what you’re looking for. There are no refunds, or exchanges at our Outlet stores, all sales are final.
The Bins Grand Opening 47 OUTLET STORE FAQ’s
When does it open?
Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 9 a.m. Daily hours will be 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where is it located?
2731 57 Ave SE, Calgary, AB for our Edmonton Outlet store please click here.
Who can shop there?
Our outlet store is open to the public!
*Please note, shoppers MUST be 12+ years of age or older to be in the facility.
What are the prices?
Our outlet stores sell products by weight at $1.35/pound. Furniture and speciality items are priced individually. All sales are final, with no refunds, no exchanges and gift cards cannot be used at these locations.
What can I find there?
Just about anything! Our large blue bins will be rolled out regularly with clothing, toys, household items, shoes etc.Will there be furniture?
Yes! There will be a furniture outlet store located in the same store as our bins.
Is there a donation centre?
Yes! There will be a donation centre located right beside the outlet store’s front entrance to drop off your donations. Check out our donation guide here for good, and not-so-good donations.
Are there change rooms?
No, there are no change rooms at the outlet stores. All of our other retail stores have change rooms open.
Are there public washrooms?
Yes, there is a public washroom on-site. - The Layout
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Spring Cleaning and Donating
Spring is a time of renewal and growth. It’s the perfect time to declutter your home and make space for new beginnings. One way to do this is by participating in spring cleaning and donating items to Goodwill. Not only will you feel refreshed and organized, but you’ll also be helping those in need.
Spring cleaning is the act of thoroughly cleaning your home and getting rid of any unnecessary items. This can include anything from clothes you haven’t worn in years to kitchen appliances that no longer work. The idea is to create a space that is clean, organized, and free of clutter.
Donating items to Goodwill is a great way to get rid of items you no longer need while also helping others. Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that provides job training, employment placement services, and other community-based programs for people who have disabilities, those who lack education or job experience, and others who face challenges to finding employment. When you donate items to Goodwill, they sell them in their stores, and the money they make goes towards funding their programs and services.
Donating to Goodwill
If you’re interested in donating to Goodwill, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, check the guidelines to see what items we accept. We have GOOD and NOT-so-GOOD donations for items we can and cannot accept. Second, prepare your items by making sure that they are clean and in good condition. Clothing should be washed and free of stains or tears, and electronics should be in working order. Finally, drop off your items at your nearest location.
For 60 years, your donated shirt is giving people like Andre a chance to enhance their job skills.
For 60 years, your donated coffee mugs are giving people like Shelly an opportunity to contribute back to the community.
For 60 years, Goodwill is providing opportunity, service and GOOD.
Clothing donations help Benefits of Spring Cleaning
There are many benefits to participating in spring cleaning and donating to Goodwill. Here are just a few:
- Create a more organized space: When you get rid of unnecessary items, you’ll create more space in your home, making it easier to stay organized and find what you need.
- Reduce clutter: A cluttered space can lead to stress and anxiety. By reducing clutter, you’ll feel more relaxed and at ease in your home.
- Help those in need: When you donate items to Goodwill, you’re helping those who are less fortunate. Your donations can provide job training and employment opportunities for those who need them most.
- Promote sustainability: Donating items to Goodwill is an eco-friendly way to get rid of unwanted items. By donating, you’re helping to reduce waste and promote sustainability. In Alberta, 90% of all items donated are diverted from local landfills (with millions of kilograms diverted annually) thanks to robust sustainability initiatives!
Goodwill employee thanking you for the assistance Tips for Spring Cleaning
Here are some tips to make your spring cleaning and donation process as smooth as possible:
- Create a plan: Before you start cleaning, create a plan of action. Decide which rooms you want to tackle first and create a list of items you want to donate.
- Set a timeline: Set a timeline for your spring cleaning and donation process. This will help you stay on track and ensure you have enough time to get everything done.
- Sort items: As you go through your belongings, sort them into piles: keep, donate, and throw away. This will make it easier to keep track of what you want to keep and what you want to get rid of.
- Clean as you go: While you’re sorting through items, take the opportunity to clean the space. Dust and wipe down surfaces to create a clean slate.
- Donate to Goodwill: Once you’ve sorted through your items, take them to a Goodwill donation center. They’ll accept a wide range of items, including clothing, household goods, and electronics.
By participating in spring cleaning and donating items to Goodwill is a win-win situation. You’ll create a more organized space, reduce clutter, help those in need and promote sustainability. So, start planning your spring cleaning and donation process today and make a positive impact on your home and community.
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Goodwill and Mark’s: Giving Denim a Second Life
The Environment
Denim is a staple in our wardrobes, but did you know that it takes a significant toll on the environment? From the water and energy used to produce it, to the chemicals involved in the dyeing process, denim has a considerable impact on our planet.
As an award-winning organization in sustainability, Goodwill Industries of Alberta is committing to doing what is best for our province and the planet.
Drop off you well-loved jeans at Mark’s How it Works
When you visit select Mark’s stores in the Edmonton region, donate your gently-used denim items at the marked (pun intended) bins. The denim is then sent to Goodwill where it has an opportunity at a second life. (see below)
Donation bin at Mark’s By making a donation at Mark’s, you will receive a $5 off voucher per pair of jeans donated, for your next purchase of jeans at Mark’s. (See details in store)
Donate your well-loved jeans and receive a voucher The Process
Goodwill will sort the product received by Mark’s at the Goodwill Edmonton Impact Centre. The product is sorted into the following categories:
Re-sell
Good quality donations sell at Goodwill retail stores across Alberta.
Repurpose
The product deemed defective, damaged or of low quality is repurposed in Goodwill’s Commercial Services division. This includes the following:
- Washing stained and/or odorous items at the Goodwill Impact Centre.
- Transforming items into craft products. This product sells in 25 lbs. craft boxes at the Goodwill Impact Centre, online and at the Goodwill stores.
- Transforming textiles into cleaning cloths, rags or packaging.
- Selling textile scraps as filling material.
- Recycling metal items such as zippers.
- Selling plastic buttons in bulk after being cleaned and sorted.
Goodwill is commits to repurposing as many items as possible when selling items in its stores is not an option, in order to avoid the recycling or landfill.
Landfill
Items that are not sold or repurposed will be disposed of in the landfill. This will be the last option. Goodwill Industries of Alberta commits to going above and beyond to avoid this step. However, in some instances due to Health and Safety concerns or due to the lack of technology available in the market, it is not feasible to divert some items from the landfill.
The Impact
Reselling and repurposing denim not only helps to reduce waste and conserve resources, but it also supports job creation and economic development. Goodwill employs people in their thrift stores and donation centers, many of whom have a disability or barrier to the workforce.
By partnering with Goodwill and Mark’s, you can make a positive impact on the environment and support a sustainable future. Not only are you keeping denim out of landfills, but you’re also contributing to the creation of employment and training opportunities for persons with barriers to employment.
So next time you’re cleaning out your closet, remember to donate your gently-used denim items to Goodwill or Mark’s – you’ll be making a difference in more ways than one.
Diversion rate from landfill at Goodwill -
60 Years of GOOD
Since 1963, Goodwill has helped provide meaningful employment for those with disabilities and barriers to the workforce.
From the very first Goodwill store on 103rd avenue in downtown Edmonton, to more than a dozen retail stores across Alberta, Goodwill is striving to make a positive impact in our province.
This is possible because of the amazing donations of clothing or used household items by people like you each and every year.
For 60 years, your donated shirt is giving people like Andre a chance to enhance their job skills.
For 60 years, your donated coffee mugs are giving people like Shelly an opportunity to contribute back to the community.
For 60 years, your donated records are giving people like Justin a chance to fulfill their dreams.
For 60 years, Goodwill is providing opportunity, service and GOOD.
Thank you for making a difference by donating to Goodwill and continuing our mission of helping those with disabilities and barriers an opportunity to find and gain meaningful employment.
60 Years of Opportunity
In 1963, the Edmonton Rehabilitation Society (ERS) officially adopted the name Goodwill at a Board of Directors meeting in October of that year. This landmark decision also opened the very first Goodwill store in the province. Since 1963, Goodwill and the ERS have done so much good for the community, creating training and employment opportunities for those disabilities and barriers to the workforce.
First Goodwill Store opens in 1963 60 Years of Service
Since 1983, Goodwill is a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) certified operation, continually improving and leading for ways to serve those barriers.
While, Goodwill is an operation that has about 30% of the workforce with a self-disclosed disability, it’s all about finding the right job for the right person, whether at Goodwill or with other organizations across the province. Goodwill has worked with over 2,000 separate employers, employing thousands of individuals since 1963.
The work continues through our Career Connections program (formally the Power of Work program), as Goodwill works closely with Persons with Developmental Disabilities, educating employers through programs like the Employer Inclusion Accelerator and working with organizations like Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM), the Pan Disability Connection and the Special Olympics, among others.
Past Goodwill stores and donations being received to support the mission 60 Years of GOOD
As we celebrate 60 years, we’ll have a number of happenings in our communities throughout the year, utilizing the GOOD that has been done over the past by each and every one of you.
This includes celebrating our mission, our sustainability efforts, our community, our shoppers, our donors, our volunteers and the hard working people at Goodwill.
Prepare for a full year of surprises and events, from store openings, donation centre openings, Proclamations from the province, lighting the skies of Alberta blue, Thrifting buses, the Thrifting Hall of Fame, the Special Olympics and so much more!
Thank you for making a positive impact in our province by donating to Goodwill and celebrating 60 years of service!
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Holiday Updates from Goodwill
Emily Olsen visits our Whyte Ave location to shop some festive finds. We’d like to thank Emily from CTV Edmonton for visiting us at Goodwill and supporting our mission of providing individuals with disabilities the opportunity to enhance their lives through meaningful employment.
Santa Goes Thrifting
Santa shares GOOD cheer with our Team Members & Shoppers Santa visited our staff and shoppers this month, bringing cheer to all and to remind us all that the Holiday season is about so much more. Its about GOODness, family, community and friends. When you are thrifting you’re not just shopping and getting great deals, you’re also supporting the various programs that we fund. 90¢ of every $1 we earn from selling your donations goes directly to programs that help people with disabilities? To find out more about our programs please visit our careers connections page.
And finally a holiday message from our President and CEO Dale Monaghan.
Happy Holidays
Thank you donors, shoppers and team members, you are making an impact. A Year of Firsts
It was a year of firsts at Goodwill as we get ready to celebrate 60 years in Alberta in 2023! From the thrifting hall of fame, to a thrift bus tour to sustainability programs taking flight, we’re excited to support Alberta, providing employment opportunities for people with barriers.
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Give the Good Contest
Give the Good Contest
We’re spreading some holiday cheer this month with a Give the Good contest! Nominate someone in your life that could use a little cheer, and we will pick one random entry to win a gift box and gift card to Goodwill!
How to Enter
- Fill out the form below and submit your nomination.
- A random nomination will be chosen and contacted by phone or email to claim their prize.
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Ugly Sweater Contest
Ugly Sweater Contest
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with an ugly sweater? Wear it to work, holiday parties and gatherings, or just on the couch watching your favorite festive movie!
Goodwill has you covered for all your ugly sweater needs. Whether you just buy one off the rack or put your crafting skills to the test to create something truly unique. Visit your local Goodwill store to find your ugly sweater, and the come back here to enter a prize package!
How to Enter:
- Fill out the form below with a photo of your ugly sweater.
- One submission will be chosen by random selection to win a prize package and gift card!
