Philanthropist Gregory Englesbe shares how Goodwill donations can make a difference during the holiday season

As most of us spend the holidays unwrapping gifts with our loved ones and celebrating the new year, it’s important to remember that many of our neighbors are struggling to obtain the basic necessities we often take for granted. 

The holidays are a time not only to rejoice with our families, but to consider how we can help our communities as a whole. 

Often, some of the simplest gestures and donations can help make life less difficult for those in need. 

If you want to make a difference this holiday season, take a look around and see what you have that would be put to better use in the home of someone who needs it more than you do. 

We spoke with GE Real Estate Consulting, LLC owner Gregory Englesbe on how he gives back during the holiday season. “This holiday season, I went through my belongings and made Goodwill donations of everything from clothing, toys and housewares to books, shoes, accessories and furniture. My local Goodwill location in Haddonfield, New Jersey, was thrilled to take these items and resell them at an affordable price to people with special needs.”

The mission of Goodwill is fundamentally to help put people to work and give them the tools they need to gain employment. When you donate, you’re not just making those items more affordable. The proceeds from sales go directly to Goodwill’s job training programs. 

An old suit or dress that no longer fits may be the missing piece a man or woman needs to feel confident at an interview. A cell phone you don’t need could be the tool someone uses to identify a job listing. A bicycle might be their means of getting to and from their new job. 

As long as items are working properly and lightly used, Goodwill is happy to find them a new home. Do you have an old computer? It could be used by Goodwill to help retrain someone in one of their job programs. 

Many of us deal with clutter in our day-to-day lives. If you take a look around you, you’ll see plenty of household items and knick-knacks you can part with that would directly or indirectly improve someone else’s life. 

An important and valuable lesson to embrace is that the holidays are just as much about giving as they are about receiving. Donating to Goodwill is a perfect way to give back and show gratitude during the season of giving.

Look for your nearest Goodwill location here and review their donation guidelines here.