Buffalo Grove upscale thrift shop opens to support local charities

Community Threads, a new nonprofit, upscale thrift shop, has opened in Buffalo Grove featuring clothing for men, women, juniors and children, as well as a full selection of sporting goods and electronics.

Community Threads, 70 W. Dundee Road, opened with a dedication Sept. 1. All the profits go to several local charities.

The store occupies 14,000 square feet and offers traditional resale items, but also specializes in unique resale items such as books, toys, seasonal items, baby clothes and a selection of designer men’s and women’s clothing.

The store also offers a full selection of furniture and house wares for every room. The shopping experience is enhanced by the more than 150 volunteers that rotate on a weekly basis, and the low cost, high quality goods offered for sale.

“We are thrilled with the quality of the merchandise that has been donated to the shop,” said store manager Elizabeth Maring. “The generosity of our donors allows us to give our customers high-end products for inexpensive prices and the satisfaction that they are supporting some very worthwhile charities.”

The shop was opened to raise financial support for nonprofits that were already effectively serving the local community. Nonprofits have been severely affected by the current economic climate and ensuing reduced donor base, opening the door for Community Threads.

“In this economy, many people rely on thrift stores to make ends meet,” said Maring. “Our model brings together a diverse group of ministries that work together to create a greater impact for each.”

Participating ministries include St. Peter Lutheran School, The Orchard Evangelical Free Church of Arlington Heights and Breakthrough Urban Ministries of Chicago. Funds received by these ministries are used to support charities, including Caris Crisis Pregnancy Center, Lydia Homes and Youth for Christ.

Funds distributed to each ministry represent the percentage of volunteer hours and donations made by each of the participating ministries. According to Maring, Community Threads is designed to give a stressed donor base a way to give without writing a check.

“The concept of combining forces to create a truly charitable thrift store and provide a valuable resource for the shoppers in the community is a win-win for everyone,” said Maring.

Donations are accepted and appreciated. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. The store is closed on Sundays.

For information, call (224) 676-0221, visit www.communitythreads.org or email info@communitythreads.org.

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