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Christina has been with Goodwill since 2020. Thanks to donations and purchases at our retail stores, Goodwill is able to provide team members with services and developmental resources like Pathways, an internal coaching program designed to help team members achieve personal and professional goals. As a Pathways coach, Christina works one-on-one with team members to help them reach their goals – from buying a car or house to finding a career or preparing for retirement.

“We might work on a budget, or we look for scholarships or grants,” she explained. “Then I get to help them impact their careers, just like my career has been impacted at Goodwill.”

Like many team members, Christina started her Goodwill journey in retail. She worked in retail for 25 years before joining Goodwill as a Store Manager.

“I’ve always shopped at Goodwill; always loved what they did,” Christina shared. “So, I happened to be in the store one day and saw that they were looking for a new Store Manager. I interviewed, and they offered me the job at the Franklin Square store.”

“I loved managing the store, but I really wanted to make more of an impact in Goodwill. Once I found out about Pathways, I said, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s exactly what I want to do.'”

Christina interviewed for the Pathways position, and the rest is history. She began working on the Pathways team in February 2022. Her retail experience helps her bond with Pathways participants and allows her to assist in stores when needed.

“I have been in retail trying to figure out what the next point in my career needs to be,” she emphasized. “I help team members with changes to their schedule; what impact they can make to hit their numbers. I help them write action plans. All kinds of stuff that I used to do as a manager, I’ve helped them do in the Pathways program.”

Christina has helped over 100 people in her tenure as a Pathways Career Navigator. But even though she’s helped so many, she doesn’t take all the credit.

“A lot of times, I feel like I don’t do anything. I get to be their biggest cheerleader or their drill sergeant,” she laughs. “They’re the ones that do the work.”

Christina is happy where she is in her career and with the people she’s encountered at Goodwill.

“Since coming on to Pathways, my teammates have been awesome. Then any of our participants, they impact my life in ways that I can’t ever put into words.”

“What makes me stay is the people. Not just the people I work with, or participants. People that need services, our customers, people who donate their items,” she said. “I just love what Goodwill does and I love sharing Goodwill’s story with everybody that I come in contact with.”

If you would like to help fund Goodwill’s programs and services that are offered free-of-charge to thousands of community members and team members annually, consider dropping off your gently used donations at one of our locations or making a financial contribution.

ABOUT THE GUIDE

Our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide is here! All of the items shown in this year’s guide were found at our Shopton Road store during a single shopping trip. But don’t worry – all of our 36 retail locations are packed with awesome gift ideas! Thrifting your gifts from Goodwill is great for your wallet, the environment and our community. We hope our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide will inspire you to shop secondhand for some of your gifts this holiday season. Gifted items from Goodwill are truly gifts that keep on giving. Download your copy of the 2025 Holiday Gift Guide now!

SNEAK PEEK

SHOP GIFTS FROM HOME

Want to find unique gifts without leaving the couch? Discover unique treasures for everyone on your list on our online auction site, ShopGoodwill.com.

From collectibles and sports memorabilia to clothing and shoes, bags, jewelry, and housewares, there’s something for every style and interest. Simply browse, place your bid, and enjoy the thrill of finding one-of-a-kind gifts online!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

From our Goodwill family to yours, happy holidays! During this special time of year, we like to pause and acknowledge everyone who supports the work we do. Whether you donate goods, shop at our retail stores, give money or simply help us spread the word –  you’re supporting our mission of building pathways that help people pursue the life they want to achieve, for themselves and their families. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for all!

UNWRAP GREAT FINDS IN STORES NOW

You don’t have to break the bank to SLEIGH the holidays this year! Stop by your local Goodwill to browse its collection of holiday decor, festive accessories, gift wrapping essentials and more.

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT

When you shop at Goodwill, you’re not just decking the halls; you’re building brighter futures. Every purchase helps support tuition-free job training programs, skill-building workshops, career development opportunities, job search support, and more – empowering thousands of community members and team members each year to find gainful employment, grow their careers and achieve brighter futures. Now that’s something to feel jolly about!

In the City of Charlotte, a partnership between Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont and Charlotte Water is creating careers in construction and strengthening the city’s workforce.

At Goodwill, participants can take tuition-free training programs in construction and trade training, including Construction Basics, HVAC, Electrical, Commercial Carpentry and more. While completing the training, participants have access to wraparound services, including working with a Career Navigator, who helps them update their resume and conduct mock interviews, along with learning essential skills that prepare them to enter the workforce. 

“At Goodwill, we prepare our students not only with technical skills but with a holistic approach – addressing career readiness, life skills, and the confidence needed to thrive on the job,” said Marvin Kelley, Director of Construction and Trade Skills Training at Goodwill.  

Another strong benefit is Goodwill’s Employer Engagement Team, who connects qualified Goodwill graduates with employers searching for their next hire.  

“I build relationships with both parties to ensure the right fit and offer services like job leads, referrals, hiring events, and employer-led training,” said Matt Robson, Employer Engagement Specialist for Goodwill’s Construction & Trade Skills Training Program. “We emphasize essential skills like initiative, communication, and conflict resolution – qualities employers consistently seek.”

One of the strongest partnerships for Goodwill’s Construction and Trade Training program is with the City of Charlotte; in particular, Charlotte Water.   

Over the past two years, eight Goodwill participants have been placed at Charlotte Water through this partnership, with five entering through the apprenticeship track. The average starting wage for these roles is $22.13. 

Through a Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship program, Charlotte Water offers a 12-month paid experience that provides participants real-world experience in the water industry. Each apprentice is paired with a mentor and earns their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Tanker endorsement, a vital credential for advancing in field operations. 

Participants, several of whom come through Goodwill’s Construction Skills Training Center, are working, growing their skills, and preparing for long-term careers in the water industry. 

Armonte Massey went through the apprenticeship program and is now a Utility Technician I at Charlotte Water. Massey has directly benefited from the partnership.  

“I always wanted to work for the city, because my brother does,” he shared. “I was filling out applications, but I never got hired because I didn’t have the experience. [After completing the courses at Goodwill,] I went to a hiring event. I told them I was a Goodwill participant, and I guess that made me stand out.”

“At Charlotte Water, I’ve learned a lot. I’ve learned how to use more tools; I have my CDL and now I’m the dump truck driver. I have different certifications, and I’m eventually going to go to school to get more.”  

Shakira Townsend is another Goodwill graduate who has built a career with Charlotte Water. She has been working there since 2022 and is a Utility Technician II.

“To be able to take these classes and go into the community with the necessary skills – that has truly changed my life,” she said. “I am very happy where I am now. I go to work happy, and I learn something new every day.”

Goodwill’s Construction Skills Training Center plays a critical role in preparing participants for the next step in their careers.

“Over the past two years, our collaboration with the Goodwill Construction Skills Training Center has consistently produced participants who are well prepared, studious, and highly engaged in the learning process by the time they join Charlotte Water. Their foundational experience through Goodwill allows them to transition seamlessly into our apprenticeship environment and excel in their training,” said Paula Holmes, Workforce Development Lead at Charlotte Water.

As Charlotte continues to grow, so does the need for skilled professionals in essential services like water infrastructure. This partnership between Goodwill and Charlotte Water is not only meeting that need; it’s an act of investing in the future of the city and its people. 

“Our partnership with the City of Charlotte and Charlotte Water demonstrates what’s possible when education, opportunity, and community come together. Seeing our graduates in Charlotte Water’s apprenticeship program is a powerful reminder that when we invest in people, we build stronger careers and a stronger city,” said Marvin Kelley. 

If you’re an employer looking for talent that’s trained, motivated, and equipped with essential skills, partner with Goodwill to connect with candidates who are ready to make an impact from day one. Contact our Employer Engagement Team to learn more.

MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY TABLE SHINE

Whether you’re planning a cozy Thanksgiving dinner or a festive Christmas feast, your local Goodwill has everything you need to host in style. From elegant dishware and serving platters to seasonal linens and decor, our stores are full of affordable treasures that help you create a warm, welcoming space for every celebration. Hosting has never been so easy – or so budget-friendly!

GREAT FINDS IN STORES NOW

SHOP ONLINE

Prefer to shop from the comfort of home? Browse hosting essentials on ShopGoodwill.com, our online auction site where you can search for exactly what you need and have it shipped straight to your door.

MORE THAN A STORE

When you shop at Goodwill, you’re not just setting the table; you’re making a difference. Every purchase helps build pathways to prosperity by supporting tuition-free job training programs, skill-building workshops, career development opportunities, job search support, and more – empowering thousands of community members and team members each year to find gainful employment, grow their careers and achieve brighter futures.

Get ready for one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year! Goodwill’s technology and gaming store, The GRID: Powered by Goodwill, is rolling out exclusive Black Friday and weekend-long deals at both of its locations:

Whether you’re hunting for gaming gear, laptops, or accessories, there’s something for everyone. Here’s the full breakdown:

Black Friday – Friday, November 28, 2025

Available at Both Locations on 11/28 Only:

Exclusive Door Buster Deals at the Charlotte Store on 11/28 Only:

Exclusive Door Buster Deals at the Shelby Store on 11/28 Only:

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Black Friday Weekend – Saturday & Sunday, November 29–30, 2025

Available at Both Locations on 11/29-30:

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Whether you’re shopping for yourself or grabbing gifts early, The GRID has unbeatable deals on tech and games. Come early for the best selection – and don’t miss those Door Busters!

And the best part? Every purchase helps fund tuition-free job training programs, skill-building workshops, career development opportunities, job search support, and more – helping thousands of community members and team members each year achieve meaningful employment and build brighter futures. When you shop Black Friday Weekend at The GRID, you’re scoring great deals and making a difference for the planet and our community!

 

Now Open: Mexibites Food & Bakery at our Rockingham Store!

We’re thrilled to welcome a delicious new addition to our Rockingham retail store. Mexibites Food & Bakery is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., serving up bold flavors and fresh-baked treats that are sure to become your new favorites!

Located right inside the store, Mexibites offers a mouthwatering menu featuring:

Whether you’re shopping or just stopping by for a bite, Mexibites brings a vibrant taste of tradition and creativity to your day.

JOIN US FOR THE OFFICIAL GRAND OPENING EVENT ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

We’re celebrating in style, and you’re invited!

See highlights from the Mexibites menu here.

Come hungry, leave happy – and maybe even as a gift card winner! Whether you come for the tacos or the treasure hunt, there’s something for everyone at our Rockingham store. We can’t wait to see you there!

SEASON OF GIVING ROUND UP CHALLENGE

This November, your spare change can spark real change in our community – and give you a chance to win a little something extra for yourself!

When you shop at any Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont retail store and choose to round up your purchase this month, you’ll be eligible to enter our weekly giveaway for a $25 Goodwill gift card! Just scan the QR code at checkout to enter. One lucky winner will be selected each week throughout November – and the more times you shop and round up, the more chances you have to win!

Here’s how to enter:

  1. Shop at any Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont retail store.
  2. Round up your purchase to the nearest dollar – or more if you’re feeling extra generous!
  3. Scan the QR code at the register to enter the giveaway.
  4. Repeat each time you shop and round up — every entry counts!

But the impact goes far beyond the register.

Your extra cents help fund life-changing programs for thousands of people in our community – including our own Goodwill team members. From tuition-free Construction & Trade Skills training to job search support and wraparound services, your generosity helps individuals build brighter futures for themselves and their families. We encourage you to read the stories of some of the thousands of people we’ve helped thanks to community support.

It’s a small act of kindness that makes a big impact.

Thank you for giving back this season. Good luck in the giveaway!

At Goodwill, we believe that investing in people is the key to organizational success. That’s why we developed Essential Edge – a fully customizable professional development program designed to meet the real-world needs of today’s workforce. Whether your goals include reducing turnover, boosting employee engagement, or strengthening communication, Essential Edge offers flexible training options tailored to your team’s objectives and budget.

From Essential Skills training and leadership mini-conferences to the DiSC communication tool, interview workshops, computer essentials, and customer service training, organizations can mix and match modules to build a program that works for them.

One of our standout partnerships is with Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS). Together, we launched a Supervisor Workshop – a targeted program combining Essential Skills, Everything DiSC, and Coaching to support CATS’ leadership development goals.

“We were thrilled to bring together 23 supervisors and managers from across all divisions of CATS to focus on building key leadership and professional skills through three impactful micro-learning sessions,” said C. Nicki Galloway, Director of Organization & Workforce Development at CATS.

“As part of the experience, our supervisors completed their personal DiSC assessment and took a deep dive into understanding themselves and how to better connect, communicate, and collaborate with others.”

CATS’ enthusiasm for the program has been inspiring. As Galloway shared:

“We’re proud to invest in the growth of our leaders and continue strengthening the people who keep CATS moving people forward every day – and we are happy to promote and share our excitement and opportunities we’ve had because of our partnership!”

We’re proud to collaborate with organizations like CATS that are committed to empowering their teams. Let us help your business unlock its potential through Essential Edge.

Ready to elevate your workforce? Learn more about Essential Edge and how we can tailor a program for your team.

At Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont, construction training is more than just learning a trade – it’s about transforming lives. In honor of Careers in Construction Month, we’re highlighting three Goodwill team members who play a vital role in guiding participants toward sustainable careers in the skilled trades.

Verona Hendrix, Robert Johnson and Matt Robson assist construction participants in preparing for a role in the industry. As Career Navigators, Verona and Robert provide career coaching, assisting with resumes and mock interviews to ensure participants are ready to secure their next role. As an Employer Engagement Specialist, Matt works with employers to set up opportunities to find talent, such as job fairs and roundtables. He then works to connect participants with employers in hopes that they will find a great match.  

We asked the team a few questions about the work they do and how Goodwill’s Construction Skills Training Program is helping participants prepare for the future of construction. 

How do you support participants in the construction program? 

How is Goodwill preparing participants for the future of construction? 

What does it mean to be part of someone’s journey toward a sustainable career? 

Why is partnering with Goodwill a smart investment for construction employers seeking skilled, job-ready talent?