HAPO Community Credit Union Invests in Youth Creativity and Education Through Project Goodwill

​HAPO Community Credit Union is proud to support Project Goodwill, a dynamic themed fashion show competition that brings together local high school clubs to showcase creativity, sustainability, and community impact - all while competing for funds to support their programs.

At HAPO, investing in the future of our youth is more than a commitment; it’s a responsibility. Through creative, hands-on educational opportunities like Project Goodwill, students gain real-world experience that builds confidence, leadership skills, and financial awareness in innovative ways.

Project Goodwill challenges students to design and present three original outfits using materials primarily sourced from the local Goodwill Outlet, highlighting the mission of Goodwill Industries and promoting sustainability through reuse and repurposing. “Project Goodwill is about empowering local high school students to build confidence, develop teamwork, and express their creativity in a meaningful way,” said Ashley Sams, Marketing Manager at Goodwill. “Through this unique, student-led fashion show, participants transform materials from our Goodwill Outlet Store into original designs while competing to support their school clubs.”

Each participating club creates:
•Off the Rack Creations using clothing and accessories from the Goodwill Outlet
•Paper Creations made from books, magazines, and paper products sourced from the Goodwill Outlet
•Out of the Box Creations made entirely from items provided in a Goodwill donation box including the box itself

Adding to the excitement, students serve as emcees during their runway walk, sharing vision into their designs, inspiration, budgeting decisions, and creative processes. This interactive element strengthens communication skills and allows students to tell the story behind their work. The much-anticipated event takes place on May 13th at the Red Lion in Pasco, WA.
Beyond sponsorship, HAPO will also lead and manage a dedicated marketing campaign in partnership with participating students. Students will develop a full social media campaign, from concept and messaging to content creation and implementation.

“Project Goodwill reflects the values HAPO stands for: education, creativity, and strong community connections,” said Crystal Contreras, VP of Community Engagement at HAPO Community Credit Union. “When we invest in programs like this, we invest in future leaders. Students are learning budgeting, teamwork, sustainability, marketing, and public speaking, all in a way that feels exciting and empowering.”
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HAPO’s partnership with Project Goodwill aligns with the credit union’s long-standing focus on financial wellness, education, and community engagement. Through initiatives like this, HAPO continues to provide innovative learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom and equip students with skills that last a lifetime.