August gives shoppers secondhand options, and a way to enjoy the hunt and make an impact
 
On August 17, Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) will recognize National Thrift Shop Day, by celebrating the entire month of August, where our customers can enjoy the “thrill of the hunt” and search our stores for unique and one-of-a kind items every day.  While on their “treasure hunts”, they will also be supporting job programs that help individuals learn skills that can put them on a path to sustained employment and improved financial stability.
 
“It's a day for our donors and shoppers to celebrate the value of donating and up-cycling fashion, while also making a greater impact on our community by helping individuals secure meaningful employment through job skills training.” said Emily Stadtmueller, Director of Retail Operations at Goodwill NCW.  “Through our employment programs last year, Goodwill NCW was able to increase the collective annual income of individuals served by more than $4.5 million, enabling them to support their families and to build better lives and stronger communities.”
 
The community impact through Goodwill NCW programs fueled by store sales reaches even further: 
 

• 81% of job seekers who secured employment were from disadvantaged populations, such as people with refugee status, people without housing, people who are justice-involved and people with a disability.
• Supported veterans in building new skills for non-military jobs, increasing their median hourly wage by $10.50 and eliminating the employment barriers they often face.
• Increased Program Participants with a Disability’s collective annual income by more than $1.6 million.