It’s time for the great pre-Christmas toy clean-out at the Clark house. At least that’s what I have planned. But, when I actually start going through their toys, the guilt kicks in, or I think someone might play with that plastic Dora doll that’s missing an arm and all of her clothes someday.
A playroom found here. (Because there’s no way you’re seeing what ours looks like right now.)
Last week, Lelia (who I met while writing for the Goodwill blog) emailed, asking me to remind you about donating to Goodwill this holiday season. It was a good reminder for myself that the things I’m “throwing out” mean a lot more than the fact I can feel better about how our playroom looks before we just add more toys to the mix next week. I had the opportunity to tour the Goodwill offices and facilities in Charlotte last year, and it opened my eyes to all that they do for people because of others simply dropping off their extra “stuff.” (And, if there’s ever a time to help people, it seems like it’s now.)
(Young donors at a local school—photo courtesy of Goodwill)
Besides providing jobs at their retail stores, Goodwill also offers job skills training, employee placement, and youth services, to name a few. Sometimes, it’s hard to comprehend what that means unless you see real people who have been helped. You can read about some of those success stories here.
Goodwill Gift Card giveaway
This giveaway is now closed.
And, of course, we thrifty blogging types all know that Goodwill can be a pretty great place to shop for treasures. In the holiday spirit, Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont is giving one of my (local to the Charlotte area) readers a $50 Goodwill gift card.
To enter, just “like” Goodwill on Facebook and leave a comment on this post. For an additional entry, leave another comment letting me know what you plan to donate this holiday season.
Please note that the gift card can only be redeemed at a Goodwill in the Southern Piedmont region. The winner will be chosen randomly and announced on my Facebook page this Friday (12/21).
Off to clean out our toy closet. . .
I always try to donate my stuff to Goodwill! I figure it is doing so much more good there, then either sitting in my closet never being worn or in the trash. I've found some pretty awesome things at Goodwill too- a pair of Citizens and a pair of True Religions!
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simplylowcountry.blogspot.com
I purged the playroom last week...a lot of broken toys, happy meal toys (bad sign with the amount we had) and toys that they had outgrown...we packed up the usable toys, we do plan on keeping them when grandkids come to play...a long long long time from now!!
ReplyDeleteGreat organization!
ReplyDeletewhat a worthy project and cause! I love to make the kids aware of those that don't have a 1/4th of what they have.
ReplyDeleteHappy Holidays!
xo Nancy
Powellbrowerhome.com
Oh yes, we do the big toy/clothes clean out too. What's funny is how the kid's attitudes change about it every year. This year my 6-yr-old threw herself on the ground, hysterical about giving up the one-armed dolls. My 11-yr-old on the other hand, tried to get rid of everything (bc it reminds him of being 'baby' I think.) good luck with your efforts!!
ReplyDeleteWe purged our closet & dresser last week... you would think we were moving out because we had SIX garbage bags full!!
ReplyDeleteLove Goodwill - donating, shopping and supporting! Thank goodness for all they do!
ReplyDeleteWe donated a bunch of toys the other day as well. Our six year old was more than happy to gather up things she will no longer use. Made me proud of her. Thanks so much! I love Goodwill for donations and shopping!
ReplyDeleteAnother great place to donate is to someone who is adopting. Last summer several people donated their "junk" to my yard sale. We raised $1600 dollars to help off set our costs. We were greatly blessed!
ReplyDeleteI've never been one to get too attached to things, so I happily go through the house several times a year to donate to Goodwill! My daughter turned one in September, but has recently started walking, so it feels like she went from baby to toddler with that big milestone! I've been gathering up all her baby things to make a big donation. :)
ReplyDeleteGood afternoon from L.A.!
ReplyDeleteEmily, I think it's tremendous that you've written this entry. At this time of year I think it's wonderful to remind our familes that this season is one of giving.
Our family has been dong a project called "The 25 Days of Christmas" and involves us helping others or performing acts of kindness up to Christmas Day. It's on our blog, and I'd love to spread the word and encourage others to reach out during this season of hope. If you have a change, I hope you'll take a look.
A Merry Christmas to your family, and kudos to you for spreading the good word!
Warmly,
Elizabeth
thequonfamily.blogspot.com
I've been a fan of Goodwill for ages, for all they do with job training and all the great items they save from landfills. I have even "liked" them on Facebook. With a second daughter moving into an apartment for college next fall, a $50 Goodwill gift card will go a long way in setting her up!
ReplyDeleteI always donate my family's clothes and toys to my local Steele Creek Goodwill! As a matter of fact we shop there on a regular basis. I was just there last night picking up some nice back for my home. Today is senior citizen day.. 25% off... so we're going back tonight with my mom to find more deals.
ReplyDeleteI try to bring the kiddos with me when we make donations at our Goodwill in Leesburg. I hope to instill in them the importance of giving....
ReplyDeleteA great reminder, Emily! I love donating to Goodwill!
ReplyDeleteI liked the goodwill page on facebook!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I am doing the exact same thing that you are, I am going through my kids toys and clothes and making a big pile to donate to Goodwill. It feels so great to do something good for the community while making my home feel lighter too. Thanks for the great giveaway!
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