Helping Others Grow: A New Mural Blossoms at Goodwill Almaden
At our Goodwill of Silicon Valley Almaden thrift store, a brand-new mural now brightens the donation drive-through, serving as a vibrant reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together with generosity and purpose.
Created in partnership with our friends at Local Color, the mural, titled “Help Others Grow,” turns a familiar everyday space into something joyful and meaningful, honoring our donors and celebrating the transformative power of giving.
A Mural Rooted in Community Stories
The mural was designed by Melissa Marzan, a local oceanic hand-lettering and illustration artist known for typography-forward murals that express connection and hope.
Melissa drew inspiration from the real stories of our program participants, individuals who have worked hard to overcome employment barriers and build new beginnings with Goodwill’s support. Each element carries a piece of their journey:
- Western Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly – endurance, joy, and new beginnings after hardship
- California Buckeye Tree – resilience and rebirth, native to Almaden Valley
- California Poppies – growth and blooming at one’s own pace
- Sun – hope, renewal, and light after adversity
- Ribbon – optimism and connection woven through community
- Book – life’s evolving chapters and the promise of new opportunities
Across the mural, a simple but powerful message reads: “What you give helps others grow.”
This mural came to life through the creativity of Local Color and the helping hands of volunteers from our Expandability Program, which empowers adults with disabilities through paid job training and personalized coaching.
Reimagining Spaces, Inside and Out
The unveiling of this mural marks the start of a new chapter in how Goodwill of Silicon Valley welcomes our community. We’re in the process of refreshing our Goodwill stores to feel brighter, more inviting, and more connected to the generosity and optimism that make our mission possible.
As Christopher Baker, our CEO, shared:
“When people drop off gently used items, we want them to see this mural and feel proud knowing that, by choosing to give rather than throw away, they’re helping grow a stronger, more sustainable Silicon Valley.”
Where Every Donation Stays Local
Behind every item donated to Goodwill is a story of hope taking root. Each contribution helps create pathways to opportunity right here in our community, funding job training, reentry support, and career development for those often left out of the job market, including veterans, unhoused residents, people with disabilities, justice-involved individuals, and at-risk youth.
These efforts –all made possible through community giving and thrift sales – strengthen families, create a more resilient local workforce, and contribute to a cleaner, greener community. In 2024 alone, we diverted more than 35 million pounds of material from landfills, proof that sustainability and opportunity can thrive hand in hand.
Visit the Mural That Brings Goodwill to Life
Stop by our Goodwill Almaden store at 3060 Almaden Expressway to see the mural in person. Whether you’re dropping off donations, thrifting for treasures, or simply taking in the art, we hope it inspires you to see the power of community generosity—and the good we can grow together.