As an employee of Goodwill of Greater Washington, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the profound impact your donations can have on our community. Whether you’re clearing out clutter or looking to support a worthy cause, your physical and financial contributions go a long way in helping us transform lives and communities through the power of education and employment to those in need. 

Whether you're a seasoned giver or just starting out, here are some insider tips from Goodwill of Greater Washington employees to ensure your donation process is seamless and makes the greatest difference.

1. Know What to Donate

Goodwill of Greater Washington accepts a wide variety of items to provide convenience to many in our community, but it’s essential to ensure they’re in good, usable condition. Clothing, shoes, accessories, household items, and small electronics are always welcome. However, there are some items we cannot accept for safety and regulatory reasons, such as hazardous materials, large appliances, and mattresses. If you’re unsure of what you can donate, check out our website (Donation Guidelines | Goodwill of Greater Washington (dcgoodwill.org) for a detailed list of acceptable items. This helps us save on disposal costs and ensures your donations go directly to supporting our mission...who knows, you might be able to find a new home for that car you no longer use.

While material donations are incredibly valuable, if you no longer have physical items to give, consider making a financial donation. Monetary contributions directly help support our job training programs, educational services, and other community initiatives. You can give online or in person at any Goodwill of Greater Washington location. Donate Online to Goodwill of Greater Washington DC (dcgoodwill.org)

2. Organize and Label

Before dropping off your donations, take a little time to organize and label them. Group similar items together, such as clothing by size or type, and household items by category. This simple step allows Goodwill employees to process donations more efficiently and get items onto the sales floor faster.

When dropping off your items, don’t forget to ask for a donation receipt. This receipt can be used for tax deduction purposes. It’s a good practice to keep a detailed list of what you’ve donated, including the estimated value of each item. This will make it easier to complete your tax return.


3. Seasonal Donations 

Timing your donations can make a significant difference. Donating seasonal items a few months ahead of time allows us to sort, price, and display products when they're needed most. For instance, you can donate winter clothes in the fall and summer items in the spring. Not only does this support those in your community, but it also allows you to make room for your own seasonal wardrobe changes. 

All in all, donating to Goodwill of Greater Washington is a simple yet powerful way to give back. Your generosity helps us create job opportunities, provide training, and support those in need. By following these tips, you can ensure your donations have the greatest possible impact. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to making a difference.

 To learn more about Goodwill of Greater Washington and how your donation supports the community, visit Donate to Goodwill - Make a Difference Today | DC Goodwill.