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Habitat ReStore putting out the call for more volunteers

Potential volunteers should be available to commit to at least one four-hour shift Monday through Saturday.

People across the Comox Valley have caught spring fever, and they are de-cluttering their homes with a vengeance. Thankfully, rather than throwing their gently used items in the trash, they are donating items to local charities. The Habitat for Humanity Vancouver Island North’s ReStore in Courtenay is one of the recipients of this generosity.

The non-profit organization which helps local families secure affordable housing is putting out a call for volunteers for its receiving area, to help sort, price and organize houseware items, as well as in all other areas of the store’s operations.

“With the return of weekend garage sales, we experience a significant – and most welcome  –increase in donations,” explains ReStore operations manager, Ellie Karas. “Most people know that we accept and sell new and gently used building materials, furniture, and large appliances, but we also receive donations of housewares, garden supplies, sports equipment and more. Many local shoppers make a habit of coming into the ReStore on a regular basis to see what new treasures are in store for them.

“We appreciate that this community is so generous in its support.”

“The ReStore is an important part of Habitat for Humanity’s operations because the profits from the ReStore support our build projects,” adds volunteer co-ordinator, Terri Perrin. “We do have a core group of employees at the ReStore, but we depend on a team of more than 60 volunteers to help us with everything from electronics testing and metal recycling. As well as sorting, cleaning, pricing and working as a cashier.  Volunteers truly are the heart of this organization.”

If you are a garage sale guru who can, for example, tell the difference between a Fiestaware dinner plate and a knock-off, you could be the type of volunteer that the Habitat for Humanity Courtenay ReStore needs to help price and merchandise houseware donations. Cashiers, recycling helpers, and yard workers are also required.

Potential volunteers should be available to commit to at least one four-hour shift (from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or 1-5 p.m.) Monday through Saturday. Orientation and training will be provided.

Those interested in volunteering at the ReStore are encouraged to call Terri Perrin at 250-334-3777, ext. 224 or email terri@habitatnorthisland.com