Coffee Talk
With Judy
I’m sure, if you have been to The Thrift Store at Silver Creek Senior Center, you have seen Judy, probably not standing still. She’s an 85 year old Mother and Grandmother with what I’m sure must be Super Powers.
-She can move faster than most 67 year olds. (Me)
-She works 6 days a week at the Thrift Store.
-She manages a staff of 14 volunteers.
That’s our fearless leader Judy.
I am one of the volunteers at the Thrift Store. Judy has us processing donations that come in. They have to pass her inspection to go out on the floor. That means making sure that EVERYTHING is clean, that there are no holes or tears in the clothes or bedding, and it is all put away neatly in its designated area.
She has mentioned to us how important our volunteer job is stating, “If it weren’t for The Thrift Store, there would likely be no Senior Center.” The money that is brought in by the sale of merchandise goes directly to the Senior Center, to pay for essentials like food, electricity, and whatever they need to operate.
I had the opportunity to interview Judy for the blog. I asked her a few questions:
Me: How did your path lead you to manage The Thrift Store?
Judy: I started volunteering in the food bank and I was also decorating the dining room. I hurt my back and couldn’t work for a couple of months. I was in the dining room and heard that the previous thrift store manager had resigned, and I volunteered for the job. I’ve had over 40 years’ experience in yard sales and swap meets, plus I’m a dedicated recycler, so the job was a good fit.
Me: Describe yourself with 3 to 5 adjectives:
Judy: Hardworking, responsible, dependable, caring.
Me: What are your goals for The Thrift Store?
Judy: Expansion, painting the cashiers area, and fine-tuning the back work area.
Me: What are your hobbies?
Judy: Cooking, reading, and archaeology.
Me: Who has inspired you the most and why?
Judy: My parents did. They were dedicated and responsible, moral, loving, and helpful to others.
Me: If you could go anywhere on earth, where would you go and why?
Judy: Hawaii, I have always wanted to go there.
If you have never stepped into The Thrift Store at Silver Creek Senior Center…what are you waiting for?
Come by and check out all the cool items. There is something for everyone. Please, don’t forget to say “Hello” to Judy--if you can catch her.
Tina Coffee
