It takes a special community like Lopez to accomplish important community goals. One shining example is The Lopez Thrift Shop, founded back in the early 1980’s by Florence Burke, Jean Boushey and other community-minded women. Look where the shop is, literally and figuratively, today. But first is a bit of history of the shop for those not familiar with this success story.
The Thrift Shop, incorporated March 2, 1982, held its gala opening on April 8, 1982. And as Florence Burke said, the Shop idea grew out of the Clinic Auxiliary group “to raise money for our Catherine Washburn Medical Clinic.” By 1982, the 30 Clinic Auxiliary volunteers had grown weary of raising money through bake sales and fashion shows.
From 1982 until July 8, 2005, the Thrift Shop was housed in Jean Boushey’s water tower located opposite Islanders’ Bank. Jean also kindly allowed her basement to be used for sorting merchandise.
On July 13, 2005, the Shop moved to leased quarters in the village, following sale of the Boushey property. This temporary leased location served the Shop well with its higher visibility and nearness to Holly B’s deck.
Between 2005 and 2010 the Thrift Store aggressively saved, fundraised and planned for the construction of our new store at 60 Tower Drive. The store opened on July 14, 2010 and was funded through individual contributions and local borrowing.
Throughout the years, the Shop has been staffed by 100 percent volunteers with about 70 being active in any given year. Over the 30 year history of the Shop it has earned and returned over $740,000 to the Lopez community. All net income is distributed to local nonprofit organizations. All revenue stays on Lopez and benefits Lopezians.
The impressive list of recipients includes: Catherine Washburn Medical Association, the Lopez Library, Lopez Historical Museum, the Grange, Lopez Center for Community and the Arts, Lopez Children’s Center, Lopez Family Resource Center, Fireworks Fund, Lopez Island Hospice and Home Support, Other recipients include Lopez DVAS, Lopez Community Land Trust, Lopez Senior Services, several Historical restorations, and several agricultural projects as well as the Lopez Lions Club Community Development Fund. Through the Lions’ Club efforts utilizing Lopez Thrift Shop revenue the Boy Scouts, Little League, and local folks needing eye glasses have also been helped. In addition, the Shop provides one high school senior each year with a scholarship for continuing his/her education.
The Thrift Shop and its volunteers truly benefit their community. Thank you, volunteers, for all your hard work and time spent making the Lopez Thrift Shop a great and continuing success.
And thank you Lopez shoppers and donors. Your support over the years has ensured that the Shop will remain a valuable community resource. Your patronage is greatly appreciated.
– Submitted by Thrift Shop Board Member Ian Lange
