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The Community Thrift Store invites the community to join in as they celebrate passing the $2 million mark this Monday, August 17.
That’s $2 million they have given away to groups that help people in Pickens County.
The $2 Million Celebration will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Chattahoochee Technical College. Special invitations go to Thrift Store volunteers, donors, customers, grantees and supporters.
For those not aware, the Community Thrift Store, on Samaritan Drive, sells donated clothes, furniture and other items to turn a profit and donate that money back to local groups––a long list of groups (see ad on page 5A). And the money raised this way is more than any reasonable person would have ever thought possible.
Altogether, used couches and old suits have raised $2 million in less than 10 years. The Thrift Store turns 10 years old in January. They had a $1 million celebration after seven years of service. Now they eye $5 million as the next milestone.
Founder Don Russell said the money the Thrift Store has given is substantial, but the inspiration and support has also been significant. He said if you look at the finances of major Thrift Store beneficiaries like the Good Samaritan Clinic, The Joy House or Food Pantry, they all raise ten-times
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more money each year than they get from the Thrift Store.
“I think the Thrift Store is a catalyst for other groups,” Russell said. “They energize other groups and develop a spirit where they all work together.”
Joy House Director Steve Lowe said the consistency of having Thrift Store-generated funding has made a huge impact on plans to expand the teen ministry.
“It’s huge,” he said. “It’s something I can count on.”
Aside from the checks, Lowe agreed that important connections are made among the many support groups that work with the Thrift Store. The store’s success also inspires.
“It’s an inspiration – look at what God has done?” he said. “Look how much money they have been able to give away.”
In giving credit for the store’s success, Russell said it clearly goes back to the amazing volunteers and the spirit of volunteerism found here in Pickens. He said what makes this Thrift Store so unique, and something that isn’t seen in other areas, is how many people work hard at the store for free.
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| PHOTO BY DAMON HOWELL |
| Volunteer Barbara Kent checks out several items for customers Carrie and Susan Timms at the Community Thrift Store. Shoppers’ purchases have made the “$2 Million Celebration” on Aug. 17 possible. |
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