A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of getting a behind the scenes tour of the big Alpha Thrift store in Old Town Goleta. As a result, I feel better than ever about donating to and shopping at this amazing place. Here are some facts I learned that day from its FAQ sheet:
- Alpha Resource Center was established in 1953 by three moms of children with Down's Syndrome.
- Alpha provides family support and advocacy throughout the entire County of Santa Barbara, with offices from Santa Barbara to Guadalupe.
- 100% of the net proceeds of the stores go directly to supporting services.
- Alpha serves approximately 1,200 families and 95 adults with developmental disabilities in South County and provides social/recreation services for 53 teen and young adults and provides support for 485 individuals through the advocacy and wellness program.
And here are some remarkable things I learned during the tour:
- The stores get 200 customers per day.
- 70% of things in the stores get sold and the rest get recycled or re-purposed.
- The stores have several loyal, long-term employees.
- Alpha Resource clients often work in the stores, which gives them life skills and builds their self-confidence.
- 400 garments go in and out of the store each week (!)
- It is the place to go for Halloween costumes.
If you would like to go on a tour of the thrift store or Alpha Resource Center, and I highly recommend you do, call Marisa at 805-683-2145, ext. 105 or email mbourke@alphasb.org. This organization is a true gem in our community.
P.S. Alpha Thrift is the place to get beautiful men's ties--for a song!
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