Written by Sammy McKenzie

Next to the Northside Neighborhood House, a century-old community leader, lies their thriving thrift shop under the same name. This thrift store embodies more than just a place to find second-hand treasures. It is a hub where commerce, community, and compassion intertwine to create something truly special.

“We’ve helped over the years in many different ways, listening and responding to the needs of the community. We’re working, walking alongside our neighbors and helping them find that path to stability,” shared Jenny Stripling, Chief Development Officer.

For decades, the thrift store, guided by a mission of sustainability and support for those in need, has opened its doors to individuals seeking affordable goods who also value serving their local community.

“It’s feeling like you are a part of the community and you are making an impact,” Angie Turnure, a thrift store manager, said. 

From offering a wide variety of items from vintage clothing to household essentials, the thrift store is not just a hub for sustainable shopping but a crucial pillar in the organization’s financial structure. The income from the three store locations contributes a significant amount of revenue to the Northside Neighborhood House.

“About 52 percent of our revenue comes from our three thrift stores that goes back into our mission. So that’s a great way to tie the thrift stores into our mission. But then we’re also able to provide affordable household items, furniture, etc. for the public through our thrift stores,” Chief Operations Officer Devin Edwards said.

The thrift stores serve as more than just a retail space; they are avenues for education and empowerment. The funds from the thrift stores have helped NNH provide “empowerment classes on resume writing, basic computer skills, and even cooking,” Stripling said.

Donations are the lifeline of the thrift stores with a wide variety of items that are welcomed warmly by the crew at NNH Thrift. 

“I mean we pretty much take everything like clothing, shoes, accessories, kitchen items, household items, there are a few things we don’t take. It’s more hygiene-related. We don’t take mattresses, covers, it is more common sense sort of things,” Turnure said. 

The thrift stores’ operations personify dignity and respect, the organization offers vouchers for free items to those in need, thereby ensuring that everyone regardless of their economic status has access to necessary goods and household needs.

The sign signifies that the Northside Neighborhood House thrift store is open and ready for customers. Sunday, April 21, 2024. (Photo by Sammy McKenzie)

The impact of the thrift stores extends beyond the walls of the establishment. They serve as gateways for individuals unfamiliar with the mission of Northside Neighborhood House and a way to further the reach of the organization.

“We’re reaching way more people. I mean, we have thousands of customers coming through our doors every day. We’ve been voted best of the best thrift store four years in a row. People come in and read the signs and go, ‘oh, what else do you guys do?’ And then now they’re more passionate about donating,” Edwards said.

As the stores look towards the future, they are exploring new avenues like e-commerce, pop-up events, and meeting the younger generation through their digital platforms. 

Learn more about the non-profit and their operating thrift stores by visiting their website.

Sammy McKenzie spoke with Jenny Stripling, the Chief Development Officer for the Northside Neighborhood House.

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