You never thought they’d make it, and frankly, neither did they, but with some remarkable luck you are now facing a graduate! This is an exciting time of year for so many students who finally have their coursework behind them and can move on to their next phase of life.  As a friend or family member it can be hard to pick the perfect gift for your graduate.  Luckily Goodwill can help.  Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. While any cash-strapped graduate will appreciates money, and it’s a common gift, you can also give the gift of cash in a more creative way than simply placing it in a card. Leis are one example of a more creative way to give money and embarrass the grad at the same time. I saw lots of these this year in Berkeley, California.  A family member made leis of folded money or candy and bright flowers.  Some students had seven or eight leis, and they were quite a fun spectacle! Of course there are the real flower leis too, but you can also make your own version out of brightly colored fabrics from Goodwill.  Just cut fabric into 1-½ inch strips and sew a wide stitch up one side, gather and you’re done! Or, you can also cut out felt flowers and string them together with beds separating each one. There are many different ways to make a fun lei, and it will add a little color to the graduation ceremony

2. If you’re grad is not so flamboyant, simple jewelry is another great gift. I’ve found really fun, beautiful pieces at Goodwill, and you will too. Just spend a little more time searching the jewelry counters at Goodwill.

3. What about a fun summer camping trip, or water sports?  You could give two tickets to a theme park and a pair of goggles, or a sleeping bag and a campsite night pass for the grad and their friends. (Keep a look out for camping gear at Goodwill.)

4. Or, maybe you could give the grad something smaller to keep her mind off the terrors of job searching for the next few months. Try a good book with a hand written note, and a selection of classic movies – all of which you can find at Goodwill.    

No matter what you decide on, explore your local Goodwill to get inspired this commencement season.  Your purchase will support your community (through Goodwill’s many community outreach programs) and of course, your graduate.  Enjoy the celebration!