October 25, 2012
Kick Off Your Holiday Season by Volunteering
About 150,000 holiday ornaments and decorations are currently in storage awaiting an army of elves to sort, unpack and put them out on the sales floor at Arc’s Value Village. In a week’s time, down goes Halloween and up goes Merry Thriftmas, looking festive and jolly by the time the doors open on Saturday, November 3. This is the time of year when the human energy output is enormous. Managers have been busy with their floor plans. Staff is at the ready. It takes many hands to set up and restock throughout the season. That’s why our army of volunteer elves is so important. You don’t have to be an expert to volunteer. Just come with your tennis shoes on and a spring in your step, and bring a couple of friends if you can. It helps to make the season even brighter.
My favorite part of volunteering is the chance to uncover items from Christmases past. The most nostalgic for me is the funky reindeer that my mom used to hang on the front door. It looked like it was made out of colored, plastic Special K. Apart from the warm memories I get from seeing these vintage treasures again, I’m also happy to help in some way that benefits people with disabilities. I’m no expert on how to help directly, but this I can do. With the revenue that the stores generate, The Arc is able to provide important programs and services that make a difference in people’s lives. I always say, “Stop and think what life would be like if you’re a parent of a child with a disability.” Challenges await your every turn. It’s so important to have The Arc’s support and expertise when you need it. Volunteering during the Merry Thriftmas event is a great time to show support for families who face these challenges every day. It’s a doable – not daunting – 2-3 hours.
“The Village” has shifts open at all four stores, and people are signing up now. We are only a week away from set-up, and then off we go for 50 days of Merry Thriftmas. Click on the volunteer page and then call Molly or send an email. She’s waiting for you – with bells on. Hope to see you there!