Innovative Way to Fund Essential Community Services

April 6, 2011

Written by Caleb Pollard, Executive Director of Valley County Economic Development

Many of my colleagues and rural residents across Nebraska often ask me how they can fund essential community services like parks, recreation and the like. One brilliant idea is right here in Ord - Second Hand Rose. Second Hand Rose is a thrift store staffed completely by volunteers (the Valley County Health System Auxiliary) and the proceeds of sales go toward supporting health care delivery in Valley County and the surrounding area. The thrift shop was opened in 2005.

What is mind blowing about 2ndHR is the value it brings to our community: since 2005 (just six years), they have given more than $100,000 since the opening of the thrift shop!

When I travel across rural Nebraska, people often ask me how we do it in Valley County. I answer that creativity plays a big part, but more importantly, a willingness to collaborate across organizations, businesses and institutions is critical. We've entered a new paradigm in this country and innovative fundraising ideas are essential to the survival of community services. I know in Cody, Nebraska, a community-run grocery store (staffed by students!!) is helping keep high quality food in town and prevents a food desert from occurring.

So, this spring, when you're cleaning out the closets and the clutter, consider donating your well-loved clothing, items and more to Second Hand Rose. Because in the end, you're not supporting just the thrift shop, you're supporting your community.

To learn more about Second Hand Rose, consider attending their $100,000 donated sales celebration Tues.  May 3rd - Fri. May 6th.

The store is staffed completely by Auxiliary volunteers and is open four days per week. The Second Hand Rose sells a wide variety of quality, new and used merchandise including clothing, purses, shoes and accessories, fabric remnants, household items, small furniture, home decor, craft items, books and more.

Store Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location:
1537 M Street • Ord, Nebraska

Telephone: 308.728.3385