Helping Hands shop celebrates anniversary

Helping Hands Antique Thrift Shop celebrated their fourth anniversary with a dinner at Russell's Mercantile on Jan. 10. Those in attendance were individuals representing organizations who received donations from the thrift shop, Helping Hands Board of Directors, staff and volunteers.

Helping Hands Antique Thrift Shop had its beginning on Jan. 10, 2004, when it took over from the Coventry Cross Thrift Shop operated by the late Ed Hoppe. Carrole Jardine has been the manager of the shop since its inception. Helping Hands honors vouchers issued by local churches and community service organization for needy individuals or families for clothing and household items.

In 2007, Helping Hands honored vouchers from local service organizations to individuals/families for $41, 357 and assisted local service organizations with monetary donations.

Also in 2007, monetary donations were given to Eileen Boettiger, representing the Carson Valley Community Food Closet, $5,000; Len Frueh, representing the Carson Valley United Methodist Church Outreach Fund, $300 with an additional $100 each month for the next 12 months; Laura Winking, representing Douglas Animal Welfare Group, $500; Warren Bottino representing the Douglas County Senior Center/Meals on Wheels Program, $500; Orita Keebaugh and Cindy Fanning representing the Family Support Council/Abbey Crossing, $500; Lisa Fletcher and Lin O'Kelley, representing the Kids & Horses Therapeutic Riding Center, $500; Karen Goode, representing the Partnership of Community Resources, $5,000 for social services; Melinda Matus, representing the Partnership of Community Resources, $500.

A $1,000 voucher was presented to Marcie Young and Amy Modispacher for the Douglas County Mental Health Program.

The mission statement of the Helping Hands Antique Thrift Shop is "We're here for you." Thrift shop merchandise is donated by friends and neighbors in the community. The Helping Hands staff assists customers and keeps the store well maintained for a enjoyable shopping experience. The Helping Hands staff thanks all who donated to the thrift shop and contributed to the community.