A community treasure
By Greta Cooper, Team Assistant, Vernon Community Living Centre
(left to right) Jon Mansell of Community Connections, Chelline Harms, Sharron Hooper and Jessica Debruin.
Counting out exact change, Jessica Debruin smiles and hands it to the customer as Sharron Hooper bags the purchase. Another sale for Venture Treasures thrift store helps contribute to special events and field trips for the Vernon & District Association for Community Living (VDACL).
The store came about in June 2010 when community support worker Chelline Harms was helping to organize a garage sale fundraising event. Inspired by the idea of a thrift store, word spread and Eileen Howells, Executive Director for VDACL helped to coordinate the use of a bright boutique-like space next to the recycling depot.
Current scheduling is based on staff volunteers and individuals who really like to help with money, bagging, packing up stuff, sorting, and meeting and greeting customers. The store is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday and attracts some regular customers. There is also a community advertising board and people will phone the store to make sure they have room before donating any large items.
Harms says the community has been generous with their donations. “It’s worked out great and it’s a perfect location,” she says.
Anyone interested in donating or volunteering at the Venture Treasure Thrift Store can call 250-542-2374.
