June Shop Talk

 

Hello, Uplift! As we head into a new season, I wanted to share a quick update and thank you for everything you’ve contributed recently. Inventory is complete, and we’ve seen a lot of encouraging progress as a team. I’ll keep this brief, but I want to highlight a few recent wins and share what’s coming next. With that, let’s dive in! 2025-2026 For the first time, we’ve reached our most significant annual revenue goal to date- a milestone that will allow us to make an even greater impact in this community. When I think about all of the programs this achievement supports, I think about the children and families whose lives will be so positively affected. Until joining this organization, I had never worked for a nonprofit, so seeing firsthand the meaningful difference our work makes every day has been rewarding in a way I haven’t experienced before. The energy and behind-the-scenes effort that all of you bring to this work are deeply moving to me. To see what $1 million can accomplish when invested in helping others, and the opportunities it creates to advance and extend our mission- is remarkable. I am grateful to be part of this accomplishment and to share it with all of you. To celebrate, and to ensure everyone has the opportunity to join in, we’ll be hosting Ice Cream Bar Week! From June 9 through June 13, sweet treats will be available each day for everyone to enjoy. Thank you for your dedication. Everything Else Inventory is over and we did great, you guys! I want to thank every department in the back for the work they’ve done. You packed countless boxes of clothing, linens, books, Christmas items, and more. Emily was a tremendous asset to us all- if she supported your area, please take a moment to thank her the next time you see her.      There are exciting changes coming to the thrift shop in the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned for them! Kudos Corner This month, recognition goes to Mary Bullock. Mary is one of our newer members and a dedicated volunteer who loves the mission of Uplift Community Alliance. She became the lead of our Crafts Department when another volunteer moved to Collectables, and she has since made a tremendous contribution across the shop. Crafts includes a wide range of items- from thread, yarn, embroidery, and cross-stitch to both vintage and new sewing machines. Mary brings strong organization and care to this area. She works closely with her craft team, Bev and Sara, and together they have reorganized the department by type of craft, improving how donations are sorted and boxed. In the time I’ve managed the shop, I’ve seen Mary consistently step in wherever support is needed, including assisting Jodi in the clothing area and taking an active part in inventory by helping with pricing and boxing holiday items. Stephanie and I would both like to thank you, Mary, for your hard work, kindness, patience, and everything you do. POST SCRIPT I want to remind everyone that if you need anything for your departments, the supply list is on my office door. -Austin