Community thrift store accepts and sells donations of used clothing and housewares for a good cause.

by Gina Goff

In Short
Nonprofit chain of stores boasts more than 2,000 retail outlets and 3,300 donation centers nationwide. The charitable model relies on community members to contribute their gently used (or new) belongings--anything ranging from business and casual wear to home appliances, children's toys to books and computers--and purchase others' donations. The proceeds from the bargain-priced wares go toward job training and career-placement services for disadvantaged populations, including welfare recipients, homeless citizens and those with physical and mental disabilities.