Goodwill San Diego and SDCCE Compete in Student Design Challenge

WHO: Goodwill San Diego and San Diego College of Continuing  Education (SDCCE) present From the Unwanted to the  Unbelievable – a student design challenge that transforms ordinary,  donated textiles into extraordinary, purposeful products. SDCCE students who are enrolled in the tuition-free Clothing and Textiles Program will compete for the opportunity to present their  

innovative designs at the Textile Recovery Summit, February 23- 25, 2026 at The Gaylord Resort. This partnership demonstrates how end-of-life textiles from Goodwill donations can be recovered and repurposed into meaningful solutions that benefit both people and the planet. 

WHAT: From the Unwanted to the Unbelievable is a vibrant celebration of  creativity, sustainability, and community impact. This event showcases how students transform Goodwill-donated textiles into purposeful, functional products, some thoughtfully designed to bring  comfort and support to individuals in need. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore innovative student creations, cast their votes for their favorite designs, shop from sustainability-focused vendors, and gain insights from expert panelists. It’s an inspiring look at how learning, creativity, and collaboration can move textiles from discarded to extraordinary. 

WHEN: Saturday, February 7 from 11 am to 2 pm

WHERE: San Diego College of Continuing Education West City Campus 3249 Fordham Street, San Diego 92110 – free onsite parking. 

PANEL: Topic: Upcycling today and what to expect from SB 707. Time: 12 pm to 1 pm 

PANELISTS: Elizabeth Davis, Solana Center; Maren Kavanagh, I Love A Clean San Diego; Kornelija Newcomer, Kornelija Art; and Jessica  Schwartz, Rehumanize the World. 

MODERATOR: Shirley Pierson, MFA, Associate Professor, Program Chair, Clothing and Textiles, San Diego College of Continuing Education. 

WHY: This event showcases the power of learning, sustainability, and  community collaboration in creating opportunities for textile recovery. It’s a testament to how non-profit organizations, educators, makers, and entrepreneurs can work together to transform recovered materials into new products and revenue streams to strengthen our local economy while reducing environmental impact. It highlights the importance of extending the  life of used textiles and strengthening our circular economy. 

ATTENDEES: Community members, educators, students, and anyone passionate  about sustainability, innovation, and lifelong learning are invited to attend.