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There’s a little thrift shop in the heart of Shenandoah that is part of a multi-county organization doing big things for our community. Expressions, Something Old, Something New is managed by Avenues, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Avenues, formerly The United Cerebral Palsy, has provided rehabilitation programs throughout Schuylkill and Luzerne Counties since 1952. Each program is designed to strengthen the individual’s current ability to gain training, knowledge, and independence in the workplace. They have multiple programs designed for all age groups from childhood to senior citizens.
Expressions Is One of Avenues Four Retail Stores
Expressions, one of four retail stores Avenues oversees, opened in 2011 with a goal to provide retail training, work experience, and community involvement in northern Schuylkill County. Other locations include Lessie’s Greenhouse Garden & Gift Shop in Pottsville, Valley Treasures in Valley View, and The Canteen in the Schuylkill County Courthouse Each store employs Avenue’s individuals who are responsible for daily tasks assuring the stores run smoothly.
"We Lift Each Other's Spirits All The Time"
“Our retail stores as well as all of Avenue’s services are designed to give our individuals experience and a sense of pride,” said Kim Noel, Avenues Marketing & Special Events Manager. They take great pride in the work they complete and the skills they learn each day. They love to come to program and work to build skills for possible future competitive employment. You won’t visit another store quite like ours where the employees have great passion in what they achieve and what they offer the community every day,“ she added.
Michelle English, one of Avenues’s Direct Care Staff enjoys working at Expressions and helping the individuals learn and grow. She said it is both rewarding and a great work environment. “We lift each others’ spirits all the time,” Michelle said. “We not only support each other, but also the individuals we serve.”
"Our Individuals Love Their Jobs"
Expressions product mix has everything from gently used clothing to housewares, jewelry to home décor, and everything in between. “You never know what you will find,” said Kim. That is the great thing about thrifting! Always the possibility of finding “something old and something new.” Kim added that every purchase goes directly back into the program, an added benefit of doing business there. “Our individuals love their jobs, and their customer service is top-notch. When you support our programs, know that your assistance is greatly appreciated in continuing to serve individuals with disabilities,” Kim said.
Expressions, located at 114 N. Main Street, Shenandoah frequently features special discounts and seasonal promotions. Their friendly team accepts donations during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
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