Tag: Sherwood Park

  • Goodwill Sherwood Park GRAND OPENING

    Goodwill Sherwood Park GRAND OPENING

    The time has come to celebrate our wonderful community of Sherwood Park and their contributions to Strathcona County with a GRAND OPENING celebration of a new retail store on Baseline Road!

    Join us at #342 390 Baseline Road, Sherwood Park at 10 a.m. on November 29 for all of the amazing opening day festivities with music, extra goodies and a live on location from 96.3 The Breeze!

    Discover amazing finds and unique treasures, all while supporting Goodwill’s mission of creating opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.

    History in Sherwood Park

    Goodwill first opened our doors in Sherwood Park in 2014 and for 10 years this location has created opportunity through the power work.

    All while providing great opportunities for shoppers and donors alike on their little corner of Athabascan Ave.

    Your purchases help make a positive impact in our community. Together, we’re building brighter futures! See you there!

    Details

    • Black Friday
    • November 29th, 2024
    • 10 a.m. DOORS OPEN
    • #342 390 Baseline Road, Sherwood Park
    • Located by Michaels and Homesense
  • Scholarship for GOOD

    Scholarship for GOOD

    YCONIC/StudentAwards.com and Goodwill Industries of Alberta have teamed up to help support those attending Post-Secondary schooling.

    Scholarship for GOOD

    With tuition fees on the rise and living expenses adding up, many students and their families find themselves grappling with the daunting prospect of accumulating debt to fund their academic endeavors. However, amidst this financial landscape, there exists a beacon of hope – student scholarships.

    Introducing the Scholarship for GOOD open to all Alberta students 14+ and their parents.

    Apply for the Goodwill Industries of Alberta Scholarship for GOOD for a chance to win $2,500 to boost your efforts in spreading good vibes and making a positive impact.

    No minimum GPA or essays required for entry.

    Tag a student to apply for a student award
    Scholarship for GOOD 4

    The Importance of Applying

    Scholarships are not merely financial aids; they are transformative opportunities that can shape the trajectory of a student’s academic journey and, indeed, their entire future. Here’s why applying for student scholarships is of paramount importance:

    1. Financial Relief: Scholarships provide financial assistance that can alleviate the burden of tuition fees, accommodation costs, textbooks, and other educational expenses. By securing scholarships, students can mitigate the need for extensive loans and debt, easing the financial strain on themselves and their families.
    2. Merit Recognition: Scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, or specific talents. When a student receives a scholarship, it serves as a validation of their hard work and dedication. It recognizes their accomplishments and encourages them to continue striving for excellence.
    3. Access to Opportunities: Scholarships open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain inaccessible.
    4. Reduced Academic Stress: Financial worries can significantly impact a student’s academic performance and overall well-being. By securing scholarships, students can focus more on their studies and extracurricular pursuits without the constant stress of financial instability. This, in turn, fosters a conducive environment for learning and personal development.
    5. Building a Stronger Resume: Scholarships bolster a student’s resume and academic profile, making them more competitive candidates for future opportunities.
    6. Empowerment and Independence: By actively seeking and applying for scholarships, students cultivate essential skills such as research, writing, time management, and perseverance. This empowerment fosters a sense of independence and self-reliance that will serve them well beyond their academic years.

    Beyond the financial benefits, scholarships empower students, recognize their achievements, and unlock a world of opportunities. After all, the next scholarship application could be the key that unlocks a brighter future.

  • Spring Cleaning and Donating to Goodwill

    Spring Cleaning and Donating to Goodwill

    As the winter chill begins to loosen its grip, the arrival of spring brings a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. It’s the perfect time to declutter, organize, and embrace a fresh start. One meaningful way to do this is through spring cleaning, not just for your living space but also for your community.

    Your donations to Goodwill aren’t just about clearing out space; they’re about giving people in the community the opportunity to start new lives. Our programs are designed to help individuals build skills, find jobs, and grow their careers.

    Your donations to Goodwill mean employment for those with disabilities.

    Spring Cleaning Tips and Tricks

    1. The Joy of Decluttering: Spring cleaning isn’t just about getting rid of dust and grime; it’s an opportunity to declutter and create a more organized and harmonious living environment. Begin by assessing each room, sorting through belongings, and deciding what to keep, toss, or donate. Letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose can be liberating and make space for positive energy.
    2. Take an Inventory: Make a list of what you have in your spring wardrobe, make a list of what you need and donate the items you no longer use and shop at your local Goodwill for your spring fashions.
    3. Environmental Impact: Choosing to donate rather than discard items has a positive impact on the environment. By extending the life cycle of your belongings through donation, you reduce the overall waste in landfills. In fact, 90% of items donated to Goodwill are re-sold or re-purposed, diverting them from our local landfills. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the spirit of spring, promoting sustainability and responsible living.
    4. Supporting the Community: When you donate to Goodwill in Alberta, you contribute to a noble cause. Goodwill operates with a mission of providing jobs and job training programs for those with disabilities or barriers. It’s all about finding dignity and joy through meaningful employment. Your unwanted items can become valuable resources for others seeking affordable goods.
    5. The Goodwill Experience in Alberta: Goodwill Industries of Alberta plays a crucial role in building a stronger community. With over 30 donation centres across the province, Goodwill offers a convenient way for Albertans to contribute to the well-being of their neighbours. From clothing and furniture to electronics and household items, Goodwill accepts a wide range of gently used items.
    6. How to Donate: Donating to Goodwill in Alberta is a straightforward process. Gather your gently used items, ensuring they are clean and in good condition. Locate the nearest Goodwill donation center or drop-off location in your area. Many sites have designated bins or staff members ready to assist you in unloading your donations.
    7. Encouraging Others to Join: Spring cleaning and donating to Goodwill in Alberta can be a collective effort. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to participate in this uplifting activity. Consider organizing a community donation drive to amplify the positive impact on those in need.
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    Spring Cleaning and Donating to Goodwill 8

    Key Donation Facts

    1. Goodwill received over 850,000 individual donations in 2023, contributing more to our mission services than ever before!
    2. Goodwill diverted over 19million kg’s from landfills in Alberta in 2023.
    3. Hundreds of individuals are served by and with our organization each year and it’s all thanks to donated goods.
    4. According to recent surveys, Goodwill is the preferred place to donate, due to being a Non-Profit organization, with a commitment to Sustainability.
    5. If you donate an item, we’ll ensure it finds the right home. Goodwill Industries of Alberta has returned war medallions to families and local legions, we’ve returned wedding photos and mementos and we’ve put items on display for the world to see, from Narwhal Tusks (given to the University of Calgary Arctic Museum) to Seal Skin Jackets, now on display in South Edmonton.
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    Embracing the spirit of spring cleaning by decluttering and donating to Goodwill in Alberta is a win-win situation. Not only do you create a refreshed living space for yourself, but you also contribute to the well-being of others in your community. As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, let the act of giving back be a cornerstone of your springtime rituals.

    There is no better time than now. Donate today.

  • Spring Cleaning

    Spring Cleaning

    Give Goods. For Good.

    You donate, Albertans with disabilities work.

    Every day, Goodwill strengthens families and communities through the power of work and the dignity of a job. Our award winning social enterprise changes lives for the better AND diverts millions of kilograms of waste from local landfills each year.

    During this year’s spring clean, when you are straightening up your closets consider Goodwill. You can donate your unwanted clothing and used household goods to make a difference in the lives of Albertans with disabilities.

    Your old clothes can be someone’s bright future, so please make a difference in a real person’s life today by donating to Goodwill!

    Good Looks. For Good.

     

    09711 20 TW 1024x512 GoodLooks

    Boot cut jeans are making a comeback and so are those vintage, 1970’s popped collared dress shirts. So why pay full price for a “vintage look” when you can find the real deal at your local Goodwill.

    There isn’t just one look either, as you can be whoever you want to be. You just have to use your imagination.

    One day, you’ll be able to walk the red carpet at the Oscars, while the next day you’re getting all your gear ready for the ‘Battle of Alberta’ figuring out which side you’ll be going for. Will you be blue and orange or will you be red and yellow? The choices define us and make us feel good in the process.

    Re-introduce to the world, mom’s old sunglasses, or dad’s old bow tie. You’ll stand out from the crowd and have more money afterwards to splurge on something else. Plus you’re making a difference, as 89 cents of every dollar spent at Goodwill goes towards programs that help those who need help the most. This is a win-win situation, because you’ll be doing a lot GOOD in your community.

    Feel good. Look good. Be good. Spread the Goodwill.

  • Share the GOOD

    Share the GOOD

    Let’s start off 2021 by spreading a little Goodwill.

    To get things started, local business needs your support more than ever. Starting January 8th, 2021, you can lend your support simply by visiting Goodwill.

    Limited Time Offer!

    For a limited time (until supplies run out) we are offering a SHARE THE GOOD package just for you! This $10 package contains valuable gift cards to various locally owned restaurants and coffee shops. It is valued at over $40.

    This could be the perfect last minute gift for someone OR you could use the gift cards yourself to help stimulate the economy!

    Just ask the cashier for more information on purchasing a SHARE THE GOOD package!

    THANK YOU!

    Our amazing team at Career Connections helped assemble the SHARE THE GOOD packages and provided valuable work experience for persons with disabilities within their Pathway to Employment training through Goodwill.

    This team in Grande Prairie, Sherwood Park and Edmonton had a system in place to help create help packages for the United Way and stepped up to use their resources in creating these SHARE THE GOOD packages.

    SHARE THE GOOD

    This SHARE THE GOOD package contains so many benefits, for so many people as we support, including:

    Albertans with disabilities
    front line workers
    local businesses

    Truly a SHARE THE GOOD venture!

    Instagram Share the GOOD

    This project to help stimulate locally owned restaurants and coffee shops is made possible by the wonderful people at JLL Commercial Real Estate, Willy’s Trucking, LiveWell Benefits and JRoss Recruiters.

  • UPDATED Store Hours

    UPDATED Store Hours

    To help curb the spread of COVID-19 and keeping in mind the health and safety of our employees, volunteers, shoppers, donors and partners, we are reducing the retail hours of operation.

    Hours Change

    Stores will open at 10am and close at 7pm right across the province effective immediately.

    This is an important step to protect those who matter most to us, both mentally and physically. COVID-19 is a real threat to our community and we must do our part to help those most vulnerable.

    Thank you so much for helping our organization through this difficult time. Our shoppers, donors and Albertans everywhere continue to make a difference in the lives of so many. Helping those with disabilities find and gain meaningful employment.

  • Goodwill proving the power of work

    Goodwill proving the power of work

    Goodwill career centre participant Joel Slugosk works at a computer under the guidance of employment facilitator Lucy Fiforowich during the career centre’s open house on Friday, Feb. 6. Megan Voss/Sherwood Park News/QMI Agency
    Goodwill career centre participant Joel Slugosk works at a computer under the guidance of employment facilitator Lucy Fiforowich during the career centre’s open house on Friday, Feb. 6. Megan Voss/Sherwood Park News/QMI Agency


    Reposted from the Sherwood Park News. Article by Megan Voss,

    While the Goodwill thrift centre, donation store and career centre opened up last fall, Goodwill recently held an open house and celebration of what it has accomplished so far.

    Dale Monaghan, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Alberta, said there are five people who are a part of the Power of Work program, which is located in the career centre in the middle of the store. Proceeds from Goodwill go directly towards the career centre and the program.

    “The Power of Work program is, first of all, it’s internationally recognized because all Goodwills in 17 countries have some sort of Power of Work program, and it’s all about creating employment opportunity for persons of disadvantage… in the case of our Goodwill, our purpose, our mission, is to support Albertans with disabilities to get great jobs,” he said.

    “Power of Work, for our Goodwill, is our training and development program and then also, beyond training and development, job search and working with employers in the community to successfully hire a person with disability. It’s about preparation out of the person with disability that’s come to our Power of Work program, it’s about readying yourself for employment, so that means job search, that means rehearsals on interviews, that means focus and development on values (that are) important in the workplace, strategies on how to succeed in the workplace.”

    Monaghan added that participants are taught the importance of showing up on time and putting in a full shift, as well as expectations in the workplace and interpersonal skills with other team members.

    An open house was held on Friday, Feb. 6 to give businesses the opportunity to visit the career centre and talk to the Power of Work participants.

    A unique aspect of the program, Monaghan noted, is its staff’s involvement in job search activity.

    “We go out with our Power of Work personnel, and we go out and meet with businesses and explore some options for jobs. Oftentimes for employers with businesses, it’s not clear that there’s necessarily a job available for a person with disability,” he said.

    The process is one that Monaghan called “job carving.”

    “We’ll go to a business and help the decision-makers there carve a position that is valuable to them, but also is very suitable for a person with disabilities. From that, then we make the connection and an interview happens. We wholeheartedly believe that there has to be a tremendous fit… but the skills, the credential, the personality of the person with disability has to fit with that business, because this is not intended to be a short-term relationship, this is intended to be a mutually beneficial relationship that lasts a longer time. That’s what Power of Work is all about — it’s an incredible bundle of relationship and capacity building, which includes the business. This is not just getting a person with disability a job, this is an entire strategic relationship bundle that includes the employer, which is a partner in this whole power of work strategy.”

    While one of the five participants currently has a job within the store, the career councillors at the career centre are continuing to work with the employee to teach greater employment skills, customer service and interpersonal relationships.

    The donation centre can also be used as job training for the other four.

    “The overall package… has been wonderful,” Monaghan said of the store, which has multiple purposes, including retail, the donation centre and career centre.

    “The community has been tremendously welcoming to us.”

    He said so far, since the store’s opening in October, there has been a large amount of shopping and donations, and the Robin Hood Association has helped Goodwill with training and advice. Monaghan said he also thanked Strathcona County residents for their support.

    “We’re just overwhelmed with the reception and the continued support of residents who shop and donate and ultimately to me, it’s not Goodwill and the Power of Work that is creating all this training and opportunity, it is the resident who shop and donate — they’re our partners,” he said.