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Our Pineville store is turning 30! To celebrate and thank the community for donating and shopping there over the past three decades, we’re holding an anniversary event on Friday, October 24, at the store, which is located at 10124 Johnston Road in Pineville. Here’s what we have planned:

Your support over the past 30 years means the world to us! Your donations and purchases have helped so many people in our community pursue the life they want to achieve. We hope to see you at our Pineville store on Friday, October 24, for what’s sure to be a fun time!

When Sabrina Edwards walked into Goodwill’s annual Bridal Pop-Up Sale, she wasn’t just searching for a gown – she was stepping into a moment of healing, celebration and community. This year marked the first-ever partnership between Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont and My Breast Friend’s Wedding, who supports The Go Jen Go Foundation, dedicated to providing critical financial assistance to local individuals and families who are battling breast cancer. Together, the organizations created a space where beauty meets purpose, and where survivors like Sabrina Edwards could find more than just a dress at an affordable price, but she could find joy, dignity and connection. 

In this Q&A, Sabrina shares her journey of survivorship, the emotional moment she found her perfect gown at Goodwill’s annual Bridal Pop-Up Sale, and the deep impact of two organizations coming together to uplift women when it matters most.

Q: Tell us about your experience finding your gown at Goodwill’s annual Bridal Pop-Up Sale.
A: It was wonderful. Honestly, I felt like a queen the moment I walked through the door. Even before that – when I called, someone answered on the second ring and told me to come in. They welcomed me, took pictures and made me feel like family. I felt so special. I could’ve cried, but I held it together. It was just beautiful. 

Q: What made you choose the gown you’ll wear to the My Breast Friend’s Wedding gala?
A: I love the floral design – it’s different. Most people go for lace, but I’m an out-of-the-box person, and this dress called my name. It fit like a glove, no alterations needed. It’s elegant, it’s me, and it covers my scars.

Q: You mentioned the gown helps you feel confident. Can you share more about that?
A: My scars are part of my victory, but I don’t always like how they look. This dress covers them, and that makes me feel beautiful. It helps me remember what life felt like before cancer. You can’t see where my port was. It’s healing in a way. 

Q: You’re a survivor. Where are you in your journey now?
A: I’m in my fifth year. I just had my oncology appointment and have five more months of medication. I did six rounds of chemo, 33 radiation treatments, two surgeries – and I’ll finish my medicine this October. It’s been a journey. 

Q: How has Go Jen Go supported you through that journey?
A: They’ve been amazing. During COVID, they brought gifts for me, my son and my husband – even when contact wasn’t allowed. They sent money for a few months and gave me things like chapstick and lotion, which really matter when you’re going through treatment. They’ve always made me feel special. I’ll support anything they do. 

Q: And what does it mean to you that Goodwill partnered with My Breast Friend’s Wedding this year?
A: It means everything. Goodwill is a nonprofit that helps people in the community, and now they’re helping women like me feel beautiful and supported. Years ago, before breast cancer, I had Graves’ disease and was trying to find a job. Goodwill helped me build a resume – and I still use it today. They’ve always been a staple in my life. 

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
A: I just feel grateful. I feel adored. That’s the word – adored. Not everyone in my life has been supportive, but these organizations have. And that means the world to me. 

Sabrina’s story is a powerful reminder of what happens when compassion and community come together. The 2026 Bridal Pop-Up Sale will continue that tradition on Saturday, March 7 at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus, located at 5301 Wilkinson Blvd. Whether you’re searching for a wedding gown, formal dress or accessories, this event promises to be a good time for a great cause. 

CELEBRATING OUR PARTNERS

At Goodwill, we believe that lasting change begins with a holistic approach. Stability in a career is deeply connected to stability in other areas of life – finances, health, housing and more. That’s why the Goodwill Opportunity Campus is home to a network of carefully selected partners who help address the full spectrum of needs our participants may face. But these partners aren’t just tenants – they’re collaborators. We work side by side, aligning our missions and overlapping our services to create a truly integrated support system. Through regular meetings and shared initiatives, we continuously explore ways to better serve our community together. This intentional, mission-driven model ensures that every individual who walks through our doors has access to the resources they need to prosper and thrive.

Charlotte Community Health Clinic

Charlotte Community Health Clinic provides accessible, affordable healthcare to adults and children, including primary care, behavioral health, and wellness education. With support from community partners and volunteers, the clinic bridges the gap for those without other means of medical or dental care, improving overall health outcomes in our community.

The Center for Community Transitions

The Center for Community Transitions helps individuals with criminal records rebuild their lives through employment services, behavioral health support, and family reunification programs. Their three initiatives—LifeWorks!, the Center for Women, and Behavioral Health—offer pathways to stability and reduce barriers to successful reentry.

Common Wealth Charlotte

Common Wealth Charlotte empowers economically vulnerable individuals through trauma-informed financial education, one-on-one counseling, and access to safe financial products. Their model includes free banking services and 0% interest loans, helping clients build financial capability and achieve lasting economic mobility.

Skyla Credit Union

Skyla Credit Union’s Financial Wellness Center at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus offers personalized financial counseling focused on budgeting, saving, and credit management. While not a full-service branch, it provides essential toolsGU —including an on-site ATM—to help members navigate financial challenges and work toward stability.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

It truly takes a village to support individuals on their journey to stability and success. At the Goodwill Opportunity Campus, our partners work together to create a community of care that meets people where they are and helps them move forward.

Stay tuned to our social media channels throughout October as we spotlight these partnerships and the impact they’re making: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.

If you’re interested in exploring a partnership with us, email us at partnerships@goodwillsp.org.

A FRESH TAKE ON STYLE

A new kind of Goodwill experience is now open in Ballantyne, NC! You can find GW Rewind, a curated shopping space with a vintage flair, inside our Ballantyne-East store, located at 8622 Camfield Street in Charlotte.

From throwback tees and worn-in Levi’s to army jackets, Doc Martens, Carhartt, and accessories with character—GW Rewind is all about style with a story. You can find gems from the ’90s, 2000s, or even the ’70s, but the real magic is in the curation: every piece is handpicked for its vibe, versatility and nostalgic charm.

We hope you’ll stop by and check it out!

 

Halloween is almost here! But fear not, we have four quick and easy DIY projects to add some frighteningly good fun to your festivities. All are simple, made from inexpensive items found at Goodwill that you can reuse in new and spooky ways.

1. EYEBALL CANDY BOWL

Supplies: Large bowl (plastic or ceramic), black spray paint, red craft paint, fake eyes, glue gun or epoxy glue

Time: One hour, not including paint and glue drying time

Here’s How:

  1. Place a large serving bowl outside on a drop cloth and then add several light layers of glossy black spray paint. Flip over between coats to ensure total coverage.
  2. After it dries, use your glue gun or epoxy glue to secure two fake eyeballs along the top edge.
  3. Embellish with red craft paint, both around the eyes and along the edge to give the appearance of dripping blood. Creepy….and cool!

2. SPIDER VASES

Supplies: Vases, black spray paint, white craft paint, detail paint brush

Time: 30 minutes, not including paint drying time

Here’s How:

  1. Place your vases on a drop cloth outside, weather permitting, and spray on several layers of black paint. You might need to lay each vase on its side or upside down to cover all parts and pieces.
  2. After the paint dries, add webs by using a thin paint bush to apply white craft paint. Create straight lines that radiate out from a center point. Paint small scallop-shaped lines to connect the first set of lines to give it that spidery and spooky feel.
  3. While you could add real flowers to these Vampire-approved vases, consider adding small branches with dead leaves on them or paint some silk flowers black.

3. CREEPY COLLECTIBLES

Supplies: Small statutes or figurines, black spray paint, white/green/red craft paint, fine paint brush

Time: One hour each, not including paint drying time

Here’s How: 

  1. Place your statues or figurines on a drop cloth outside and spray paint them black. Cover all parts and be sure to place them on their sides then add more paint to get solid coverage.
  2. When your black paint has dried, use your small detail brush to paint on details like green eyes, ghostly white skin and, of course, blood.

4. MUMMY LANTERNS

Supplies: Glass candle containers or jars, First Aid cloth, Mod Podge, scrap paper, scissors, foam brush, markers, tea lights

Time: One hour, not including Mod Podge drying time

Here’s How: This project is as easy as 1, 2, 3 — or brush, wrap, cut.

  1. Brush Mod Podge (clear drying craft glue) on your glass candle container or jar
  2. Wrap it in the white First Aid cloth, stretching and spreading it out as you go.
  3. Cut off the extra and tuck the end inside. Let it dry overnight, then draw eyes and a mouth on paper, cut them out and glue them in place.

Put a candle inside (battery operated are the best and safest option), turn on and place them where they will be sure to attract squeals!

Inspired to get started? Head on over to your local Goodwill to see what you can scare up. We wish you a safe and Happy Halloween!

Looking for more Halloween inspo? Check out our DIY costume guide or download our lookbook.

Celebrating 25 Years of Goodwill in Shelby, NC!

We’re excited to celebrate 25 years of serving the Shelby community! While our store has relocated during that time, it has remained a constant presence in the community – and we’re proud to continue making a positive impact in the area.

To celebrate and thank the community for donating and shopping with us over the past 25 years, we’re hosting a special anniversary event on Friday, September 26, at the Shelby store, which is located at 1005 E. Dixon Blvd. in Shelby, NC. Here’s what’s in store:

Your support over the past 25 years means the world to us. Every donation and purchase helps people in our community pursue the life they want to achieve. We hope to celebrate with you on Friday, September 26!

TAILGATE IN STYLE!

Football is back – and whether you’re cheering from the stands or your living room, Goodwill has everything you need to get gameday ready without breaking the bank.

IN-STORE FINDS

Take a look at just a few of the football fan displays we recently found in our stores! Many of our other stores that aren’t pictured here also have great football fan sections.

LOOK GOOD & DO GOOD

Not only can you look good this football season by shopping at Goodwill, you can also do good for our community! That’s because the revenue we generate from selling donated goods in our stores is what funds the job training programs and job search support services that we offer free of charge to thousands of people in our community each year, including our own team members.

CAN’T MAKE IT TO THE STORE? SHOP ONLINE!

Shop our online auction site, ShopGoodwill.com! Click here to browse the latest NFL finds.

Meet Kiah Bachman, a Charlotte-based secondhand digital content creator and passionate advocate for sustainable fashion and mission-driven shopping. Through her platform A Journey I Deserve, Kiah inspires thousands to embrace secondhand style while supporting community-focused organizations like Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont. 

We sat down with Kiah to talk about her journey, her values, and why shopping secondhand is more than just a trend – it’s a way to give back. 

What inspired you to start shopping secondhand?

Kiah: It started with a personal need. I have an endocrine disorder that caused my body to change rapidly, and I suddenly needed clothes in a bigger size. I didn’t know how to dress this new body, and I wanted to do it sustainably. Shopping secondhand gave me the freedom to explore fashion while being mindful of the environment. I realized how much was out there and thought, “I’ve been shopping all wrong.” That moment changed everything – I knew I’d always shop secondhand first. 

Why is it important to support mission-focused organizations like Goodwill?

Kiah: I grew up in Tennessee, deeply involved in church and community leadership. I saw firsthand how many people lacked access to basic necessities – things like backpacks or shoes. That shaped my values. Now, my family shops at Goodwill because we believe in its mission. You might not always have time to volunteer or attend a fundraiser, but you can shop intentionally. Supporting Goodwill means supporting your neighbors. 

How does it feel knowing your purchases help fund career training and job placement in Charlotte?

Kiah: It brings me so much joy. As a mom and a neighbor, I feel fulfilled knowing that my shopping helps someone I may never meet gain confidence and stability. Goodwill’s mission is rooted in heart – and that’s what makes it powerful. Every purchase is a step toward someone’s fresh start. 

What would you say to people who misunderstand how Goodwill operates?

Kiah: I used to be one of those people. But once I became a regular customer, I saw how the business truly works. Donated goods are transformed into opportunities – jobs, training, and economic mobility. Goodwill is a nonprofit, and it has to operate in a way that turns generosity into real impact. That’s what makes it sustainable and effective. 

What’s your favorite thing about shopping at Goodwill?

Kiah: Oh my gosh, so many things! Every time I walk in, it feels like family. The staff is fun, the energy is warm, and there’s always a treasure waiting to be found. What someone else gave away becomes something that brings me joy—and I always round up at checkout to give back to the mission. 

What’s the heart behind your platform A Journey I Deserve?

Kiah: My whole purpose online is to remind people that we all deserve to live the life of our dreams. But to do that, we need the basics—job placement, community, and self-awareness. Goodwill provides those fundamentals. I want people to stay beautiful and know that this is the journey they deserve. 

If you would like to help fund Goodwill’s programs and services that we offer to the community free of charge – like the ones that helped Cynthia on her pathway to prosperity – consider dropping off your gently used donations at one of our locations or making a financial contribution.  

Follow Kiah’s journey on Instagram: @ajourneyideserve
 

Goodwill is one of the nation’s largest workforce development nonprofits. At Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, we offer tuition-free training programs in high-demand fields like banking, construction and IT and help people in our community find meaningful employment. To achieve this, one of the most valued tools is our relationships with employer partners, who help us to stay informed on what skills new hires need. That’s why we frequently host roundtable discussions with employers in the industry. The goal? To listen, learn and align our training programs with the real-world needs of the industry.

“In order to make our technology classes industry-relevant, we have to go to experts in the field to help make sure training is centered around what employers are looking for out of industry-qualified job candidates,” shared Craig Kalhagen, Business Development Representative at Goodwill. “Roundtables are a great opportunity to hear from multiple industry experts at one time and allow them the opportunity to share their perspective.”

Our most recent IT Roundtable on June 11 featured partners from MSC Industrial, Bank of America, Mindlance and ADI Global. The discussion focused on Goodwill’s Data Analytics Training and included topics such as industry trends, relevant certifications and technical skills, what makes a strong analyst, how candidates can stand out in the interview process, and more.

All of Goodwill’s tuition-free training programs are developed through employer feedback to ensure we’re providing training that is relevant to industry trends. The Goodwill team takes the findings from discussions such as the IT Roundtable and applies them to our future programs, equipping participants with the skills that employers in the industry are seeking. By engaging directly with employers, we ensure our programs are not only relevant but also responsive. These discussions help us build a bridge between training and employment, leading to long-term success for both job seekers and businesses.

“At Goodwill, workforce development goes beyond training,” said Raquel Lynch, Chief Program Officer. “We focus on helping people transform their lives and connect local talent with employers. By partnering with employers and aligning our programs with real industry needs, we’re equipping individuals in our community with the skills and confidence to thrive in meaningful careers. These collaborations ensure our training is not only relevant, but also a powerful tool for economic mobility and long-term success.” 

If your organization is looking for skilled, motivated talent and wants to play a role in shaping the future workforce, we invite you to partner with us. Your insights can help guide our curriculum, your feedback can strengthen our programs, and your opportunities can change lives.

At Goodwill, we envision a community where equitable access to career opportunities is available for all. Thanks to donating and shopping at our 36 retail stores and more than 40 donation sites in the region, we’re able to offer training to participants in the community at no charge.

Employers can get involved in many ways – by joining roundtable discussions, visiting classes as guest speakers, hosting mock interviews, networking, hiring our graduates, or making a financial gift. Connect with Goodwill’s Employer Engagement team to get involved today!

At Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, we believe that success isn’t achieved alone. One of our core values is to Build a Village – because when we work together, we go further. That’s why partnerships are at the heart of how we fulfill our mission of building pathways that help people pursue the life they want to achieve.

One of our most exciting recent collaborations has been with DroneDeploy, a company whose mission is to make the skies open and accessible for everyone. Trusted by users across a wide range of industries, DroneDeploy is transforming how businesses collect, manage and interpret drone data. Their user-friendly platform enables companies of all sizes to improve workflows through scalable image processing, data storage and real-time shareable drone maps and 3D models.

The company partnered with Goodwill to support our Construction & Trade Skills training program by providing access to their software. This partnership allowed us to launch a Drone Pilot training program – equipping participants with in-demand skills and preparing them for careers in the growing drone industry.

Dr. Taurean Walker, the instructor who led Goodwill’s Drone Pilot training program, saw firsthand how the integration of DroneDeploy’s technology elevated the learning experience for students.

“Coupled with classroom instruction, the students were able to experience how DroneDeploy’s software can be a useful tool for industrial application,” Dr. Walker shared. “DroneDeploy offers a simplistic platform where students are able to learn first-hand how to use one of the quintessential mapping programs on the market.”

While the Drone Pilot program is no longer active at Goodwill, its impact continues to be felt through the success stories of participants like Charles, who gained valuable skills and career momentum through this opportunity. After being furloughed from his job, Charles decided to invest in himself. He started his own production company and purchased a drone, but quickly realized he needed the proper licensing to take on commercial clients. That’s where Goodwill came in.

“The program is very beneficial because it’s not only about flying the drone and passing the class, but about all the career paths you can take with it,” Charles shared. “We got the privilege to meet people in the industry and learn what they were doing with drones and what they were looking for when it comes to employees.”

Thanks to the training and the tools provided through our partnership with DroneDeploy, Charles is now on a path to long-term success in a field he’s passionate about. This is what happens when missions align. When organizations come together to build a village, real lives are changed.

Special thanks to the DroneDeploy for believing in the vision that all people deserve to see possibilities, seize opportunities and prosper!