I am with Dee Dee and the pricing cart.

The Memphis ReStore is operated by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis. All proceeds from the ReStore benefit the programs of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis. The ReStore is a place where you can purchase gently used furniture, household appliances, blinds, books, clothes, cabinets and doors to name a few. Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit ecumenical Christian housing ministry that is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing in the city of Memphis and surrounding areas, while making decent housing for all people a matter of conscience and action. The organization works to build simple, quality and affordable homes in partnership with low-income families.

Pricing cart

As I arrived at Memphis ReStore, I met Joe and Christina.  I was then told to sign-in and to put on a gorgeous orange vest so that customers would know that I am a volunteer.  This was no ordinary volunteer job.  Usually, I would be with a handful of volunteers but today they had about 20 high school students from the YMCA volunteering.  I am really passionate about working with high school students because I feel there can be more of a relational factor in helping them to be a confident person and to teach them about giving back to their community while respecting one another.  Joe gave us a tour of the facility and talked about what items they sell and also showed us where people can make donations.  Then he started assigning jobs.  I got paired with Dee Dee, who was a volunteer from YMCA.  It was our job to put the proper price tag on items. We looked at the price on the item and then find the correct tag to put on it.  We also made sure to put a description of the item on the tag and the date. Most items have a starting price but will eventually go down.  ReStore also offers specials on specific items.  Dee Dee and I definitely made a team effort on putting the price tags on the items. We would help each other by holding the tags down with tape.  It was great getting to know her and to see high school students giving back to our community.

I am making the sign that reads “BOOKS.”

Joe then got his creative juices flowing and wanted me to make a sign to display where they keep their books.  He wanted me to get a door and then use cassette tapes to spell out the word “BOOKS.”  Joe’s goal was not only to make the store organized but to make it fun and inviting.  I learned that even though volunteering is a rewarding experience it can also be a creative.  Joe later sent me a picture showing me that they had hung up the sign for “BOOKS” and I have to say it looks pretty awesome.  I love knowing that I was able to help ReStore not only by volunteering but by being creative too.  If you want to help with Habitat for Humanity ReStore Memphis, they can always use great volunteers. It’s easy to donate to the ReStore, and all donations are tax-deductible. You can drop off your new or gently used household items at their Donation Center, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

The sign I made.

Thank you for reading! Blair Hayes is searching for a job where she can merge her enthusiasm for our community with her education and experience; she can bring a positive attitude ministering to high school students, college-aged students and families.  If you know of a great fit, please send it our way: jobleads@volunteerodyssey.com.

—————————————————————————————————————————————————

If you like our work, please consider making a contribution to keep it going!

Want the insider story and more pictures? Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter!

—————————————————————————————————————————————————

—————————————————————————————————————————————————