In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Good Fine’s Podcast, host Brent Watkins is joined by Kari Harford, Lead Day Habilitation Specialist at Goodwill, to explore the meaningful work behind the organization’s day habilitation program. With over 21 years at Goodwill, Kari shares her journey from vocational counselor to spearheading the launch and growth of a program designed to enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as mental health diagnoses.

Kari explains that the program offers flexible scheduling and a wide variety of person-centered activities, ranging from cooking and crafts to volunteering and using public transportation. Emphasis is placed on teaching soft skills like reading, coping, and socialization while promoting independence and community integration. Through carefully structured yet highly individualized plans, participants are empowered to choose how they spend their days—whether that's reading, learning bus routes, or planning group activities themselves.

The conversation also highlights the evolution of the program, which started with just three staff members and now spans multiple locations including Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and the Quad Cities. Kari reflects on how the program has become more community-focused over time, leveraging city buses and forming partnerships with local food banks and animal shelters to give participants real-world experiences.

Kari shares inspiring stories of individuals who have made tremendous personal strides—like learning to manage emotions constructively, overcoming isolation, or independently navigating public transit. She also underscores the joy and mutual respect that exists within the program, noting how clients' enthusiasm and openness often serve as a reminder of the purpose behind Goodwill’s mission.

This episode offers a touching look at the impact of choice, trust, and compassionate care. It’s a testament to how thoughtful programming and dedicated staff can help people of all abilities live fuller, more independent lives while contributing meaningfully to their communities.

In this episode of the Good Finds podcast, host Brent Watkins is joined by Drew Giese, the manager of Goodwill of the Heartland’s e-commerce and Reboot operations, for an energetic and behind-the-scenes look at how donated treasures are given new life through technology and strategy.

Brent and Drew walk listeners through the process behind ShopGoodwill.com, Goodwill’s online auction platform. The site is a thriving hub where unique, valuable, and collectible items from over 140 Goodwill agencies are listed and sold in eBay-style auctions. From rare Batman memorabilia to vintage marbles and uranium glass, Drew shares incredible finds that pass through the warehouse and the meticulous process used to determine their value.

Drew also sheds light on Goodwill’s robust book reselling operations, which utilize platforms like Amazon and eBay alongside AI tools to optimize sales. A highlight includes their collaboration with Cash Monkey, which uses data-driven algorithms to determine the best channel for each donated book.

The conversation shifts to Goodwill Reboot, a program dedicated to electronic donations and sustainable tech recycling. Listeners learn how donated computers, regardless of condition, are securely wiped to Department of Defense standards and either resold at affordable prices or responsibly recycled through a long-standing partnership with Dell. Drew also introduces the upcoming “Scrap Tops” initiative—launching on Earth Day—offering budget laptops for students and families.

From local pickup options and combined shipping perks to authentication for high-end clothing and jewelry, Drew emphasizes transparency, value, and Goodwill’s mission-driven heart. Whether you're a savvy thrifter, collector, or environmentally conscious donor, this episode reveals how shopping (and donating) online with Goodwill is making a big impact.

In today’s episode, host Brent Watkins sits down with Stacey Jones, Strategic Partnership Specialist at Goodwill, to explore how Goodwill partners with local businesses and organizations to help community members find meaningful work. Stacey explains her role in creating these partnerships, which range from housing authorities to job training programs, to help participants gain career skills and secure employment.

Stacey shares her background in social work and nonprofit management, emphasizing her passion for using data-driven programs to make a broader community impact. She discusses how Goodwill is more than just a thrift store, revealing that their mission is centered on providing accessible job opportunities and personalized career support.

The conversation delves into the evolving workforce landscape, with a particular focus on the challenges businesses face in finding qualified workers, and the changing expectations of job seekers, especially younger generations. Stacey also highlights Goodwill's diverse services, such as online training programs and career navigation, that help individuals from all walks of life access high-demand jobs in industries like manufacturing, IT, and healthcare.

Listeners will also learn about Goodwill’s innovative approach to bridging the gap between employers and job seekers, and how the organization’s flexibility and local presence help address specific community needs. Stacey encourages businesses and individuals to explore Goodwill’s offerings through their website and to consider the mutual benefits of strategic partnerships that support both the local workforce and organizational growth.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on workforce development, partnership building, and the evolving job market.