November traditionally kicks off a global theme of “Thankfulness.” A time when many will pause to reflect on what matters to them the most and openly express gratitude for what they possess. This practice may seem challenging for some because we are still navigating the uncharted territories of the global pandemic and the personal and sometimes unseen challenges, we all face. However, it’s more important now than ever that we give thanks for all we have and maintain a positive attitude to preserve our mental well-being.

To encourage you to adopt an “attitude of gratitude" this Thanksgiving season, we would like to share a few of the many things our Team Members here at Goodwill of Greater Washington are most thankful for. But first, allow us to express a little gratitude for our own.

At Goodwill of Greater Washington, we are incredibly thankful for each Team Member, from Retail to Finance, who has worked tirelessly to support our community. Our success is a direct reflection of their teamwork and dedication. We are also thankful for our various community partners. Through our collaboration, we have made long-lasting and positive changes in our communities, and we look forward to achieving even greater with you in the future. Lastly, we would like to thank our wonderful customers, donors, and advocates. Your unwavering support has fueled our nonprofit's mission services, making it possible for us to provide job training and career services to members of your community. For these reasons and more, we give our thanks.

"I would like to shout out our Finance Team – such a great group of dedicated people working so hard in support of Goodwill and Excel Center impact in our community." - Jeffrey Rostand, Chief Financial Officer - Goodwill of Greater Washington

"I am grateful for the perseverance, innovation, and resilience of the GEC students, team, and community. The GEC Team pours into our students and community each and every day to ensure our students receive the best education, service, and support there is. The GEC Team is selfless, committed to service and action, and always thinking how we can make something better and more impactful. I am honored, proud, and inspired to work alongside each GEC team member who makes a tremendous impact every day on our GEC students and each other. Thank you to each of your commitment and dedication to the GEC community." - Dr. Chelsea Kirk, Executive Director - The Goodwill Excel Center

"We would like to first thank God for all the blessings received this year, and we are all thankful to belong to this amazing Sterling Team, that works every day with the purpose of helping others." - Goodwill Team Sterling, VA

"I'm so grateful for all the team members that I have the honor to work alongside with and for this organization that supports very much. The first day that I walked in as a team member, I witness a highly noticeable positive atmosphere which I've never seen at a workplace before. The amount of support from senior leadership and all around makes work life a place where I wake up in the morning looking forward to go into work. I'd like to give thanks to my Regional Director Jose Padro, to all my fellow General Managers who support me and are always there when I'm in need, and to my team at Kings Hwy for greatly helping me achieve my goals! Without them, it wouldn't be possible. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much!" - Alfred Vidal, General Manager at Goodwill -  6220 Richmond Highway, Alexandria, VA