In 2024, Goodwill San Francisco Bay began a partnership with Walnut Creek-based dog and cat rescue Joybound People & Pets to connect job seekers to their no-cost Grooming Academy. Participants learn the valuable skill of pet grooming while gaining hands-on work experience–plus the opportunity to spend lots of time with adorable pups! 

We wanted to do something special to celebrate this partnership and share our mutual love of second chances this Valentine’s Day, so we set up a photo booth adorned with thrifted decor and accessories and let some furry friends strike a pose! Each of our eight dog and two cat models found their forever homes through Joybound, which has connected more than 52,000 pets with loving families since its founding in 1991. We admire their commitment to bettering the lives of not only pets, but also the people who love them. Like Goodwill, Joybound People & Pets breaks down barriers by offering no- and low-cost services to people in need. 

This is why the partnership between Goodwill SF Bay and Joybound People & Pets is so meaningful–we connect job seekers with their Grooming Academy program, which in turn connects people with a new world of career opportunities and advancement. And it could not be possible without your support through donations and purchases. Every thrift trip or box of unwanted items you drop off helps support partnerships with organizations like Joybound People & Pets, as well as our many in-house career training programs. 

So whether you thrift or donate, your love goes a long way. Join us in celebrating rescue pets, secondhand treasures, and every person, animal, or item that needs a second chance this Valentine’s Day!