Most people know that shopping at Goodwill or donating items to the organization helps the community, but they may not know about the creative ways that commerce translates to careers for local residents.
On the retail side, there are more than 40 stores in the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina. Specialty outlets like SecondStory books and Auten’s Loft, a boutique within Greenville’s Woodruff Road store, are boosting numbers across the region, and Goodwill’s services are growing just as fast.
“A lot of people see Goodwill as only a retail venue, but it’s really about the magic behind those blue doors,” said Chunsta Miller, vice president of communication and public engagement for Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina. “We’re continuing to elevate our services. Ninety cents of every dollar goes directly to our mission, and we just want to shout to the world — to all of our consumers and donors — that their support is powerful. They can change people’s lives.”
Goodwill is doing just that through its groundbreaking Career Pathways model, an innovative approach designed to help people transform their interests into meaningful, in-demand careers. Partnering with educational entities and other nonprofits, Goodwill now has over 20 specialized training programs and classes. From cybersecurity to health care — and even film studies — its Innovation Institute offers a full catalog of courses in technology-focused fields. Additionally, tailored services are available for older workers, young adults, veterans, those reentering the workforce and individuals seeking vocational services. Budding entrepreneurs can also connect with career coaches.
Through My Career Advisor, a new, free platform at goodwillsc.org, job seekers can participate in virtual events, get training, build a resume, connect with career coaches and more. Whether your aim is viable employment, a new career or a new business, it is worth a look behind the blue doors.
