Hello, my Uplift Thrift people!

I’m almost at my second month here and have already learned so much about the organization and all of you. This role has been a refreshing change from TJ Maxx—I do miss my Coordinators, but I’m so enjoying being here!

Changes to the Sales Floor

As many of you have noticed, I made a change to the layout of the rounders. I know a previous manager liked the taller fixtures at the front to help prevent theft, and I can definitely understand the thinking behind that. I want to share a couple of thoughts behind the new approach. First, the biggest deterrent to theft is great customer service. Greeting customers when they come in, checking in to see if they need help, and simply being visible on the sales floor all make a huge difference—and I know this team does an amazing job with that! Second, I want our floor plan to put the customer’s needs and comfort first. With this new “low to high” layout, customers can easily see from the front of the store to the back, making it simpler to browse and find what they’re looking for. Thank you all for being flexible and supportive as we make small improvements like this—it will help create the best experience for our customers (and help boost sales, too!)

Speaking of sales—team, I have great news! Our store made $83,673 in March, putting us 4.8% ahead for the year! We’re so close to hitting our sales goal, and it’s all because of you guys!

Vintage & Swimwear

We now have a standalone Vintage rack. When I first got here, I noticed a lot of great clothing was being passed over—sometimes because it looked outdated, didn’t match what we usually sell, or we weren’t sure what counted as “vintage.” For us, vintage means clothing made between 20 and 100 years ago (roughly the 1920s to early 2000s). These pieces clearly represent the era they come from and are often much better quality than modern clothing. There will be a "Z" written on the back of the tags.

Swimsuits are officially out again! They are on the L/XL Sportwear rounder!

Progress in the Garage

We’re coming up on a month without an Intake Coordinator. I’ve found someone who I think will be a great fit—we’re just waiting for the security process to be completed. A quick shoutout to the backroom team—you’ve all been doing an amazing job. Thank you to everyone back there for keeping things running smoothly- You're amazing, Susan!

A quick reminder: If you’re working in the garage, all electronics going to the sales floor must be tested. We’ve recently found working electronics in the trash and in refuse bags. Please also check toys and linens carefully. Holiday towels or sheet sets should go with linens. Lastly, please break down boxes that are thrown away, it will save us so much room in the dumpster! If you’re ever unsure, just ask—learning is what it's all about!

Kudos Corner

I want to take a moment to thank all of you. Stephanie and I are continually impressed by the commitment and effort you bring each day. The work you do truly matters.

June Foster, the care and pride you put into the shoe department is incredible. From cleaning and washing to shining each pair, you go above and beyond to make sure everything looks its absolute best—and it shows.

Trisha Oba, Jean Buckley, and Linda Hilton, The work you’ve done across these estate clear-outs is exceptional! The coordination and teamwork required to collect, transport, and deliver such a wide range of items—from books and housewares to furniture and artwork—shows a remarkable level of thoughtfulness and care.

We’re excited to welcome two new members to our management team! Denise Chasse and Nancy Lusk have joined the front-end management team, and we’re so happy to have them with us. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome—we’re thrilled they’re here!