More to Our Store-y: Mindy Boyd Celebrates 20 Years at Goodwill Industries of the Valleys
Mindy Boyd’s career at Goodwill began with moving to Roanoke in 1990 to pursue studies at Radford University. Originally trained to work in the medical field, Mindy opted for a change and committed to managing Goodwill’s Christiansburg store for what she anticipated would be a brief stint of six months. Little did she know this decision would shape her future profoundly.
Q: You got your start at Goodwill as a store manager. What was it like switching from the medical field to Goodwill’s retail setting then?
A: As a store manager, you’re juggling multiple responsibilities and ensuring operational success. You’ve got to be able to adapt to meet your goals at the end of the day. Economic hardships like the 2008 recession posed challenges, but Goodwill’s diversified business model helped us thrive. While donations softened, our stores performed well due to our expansive network of donation centers. We focused on prudent spending, keeping expenses low, and ensuring a robust donation stream. Donations are our lifeblood.
Q: Goodwill is known for its variety of unique items and vintage finds. How has this contributed to your success, especially with the recent resurgence in thrift shopping?
A: We’ve definitely seen how thrifting has been bolstered by trends on social media and TikTok over the years. Our diverse inventory has always attracted treasure hunters and those seeking unique items or vintage fashions that cyclically come back into style; it’s been a significant factor in our continued success. You never know what you’ll find!
Q: Can you elaborate on the career opportunities at Goodwill and how they contribute to employee advancement?
A: We offer mentoring, job shadowing, and specialized training programs like the Senior Leadership Program and Executive Development Program. These initiatives help employees develop strong leadership skills and advance within the organization. Early on in my career, I realized my passion for fostering those up-and-coming leaders I saw in my employees. Over the years, my supervisors did the same for me, and my responsibilities expanded into directing multiple stores and eventually assuming the role of vice president. Anyone who enters Goodwill with a willingness to learn, dedication, and a positive attitude is going to be set up for success. Those qualities are more valuable than any resume credentials.
Q: How does Goodwill support individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment?
A: We focus on abilities rather than disabilities, offering job training, discovery services, and personalized career paths. We strive to place individuals in roles where they can thrive based on their strengths. Goodwill fosters a people-centered environment, offering support during crises and ensuring employees feel heard and valued. Whether advancing or excelling in their current roles, employees find satisfaction and stability at Goodwill.
Q: How does Goodwill’s commitment to community partnership and collaboration shape its future goals?
A: We aim to be more than a nonprofit; we strive to be a community partner. By collaborating with local organizations, we enhance service delivery and support for individuals across different demographics.
Q: Can you discuss the impact of shopping and donating to Goodwill on local communities?
A: Shopping and donating to Goodwill Industries of the Valleys directly affects our local economy by funding programs that support education, job training, and community services. A significant portion of revenue goes back into employing local residents and supporting essential programs from youth to adults. As a nonprofit, our funding all goes directly back into taking care of our employees and neighbors. Many employees also participate in our services, as do their families. We’re proud to offer that wrap-around support. We’re also proud that we can offer our employees competitive pay $2 above the minimum wage, as well as benefits and growth opportunities. That’s all thanks to our community’s donations and the retail store success.
Q: Looking back on your career journey with Goodwill, what stands out as the most rewarding aspect?
A: Seeing individuals grow and succeed within Goodwill has been incredibly fulfilling. Their personal and professional development is more rewarding to me than any individual accomplishment.
Q: What advice would you offer to career switchers or those considering a different career path?
A: Stay open-minded and commit to exploring new opportunities. You never know where a career change might lead or the impact it could have on your life and others. I certainly didn’t, but here I am 20 years later!
Everyone belongs at Goodwill. Make a difference in your future when you find out more about working with us at Goodwill Industries of the Valleys.
