Habitat ReStore Sets Goals to Give Back

Habitat-ReStoreHabitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana’s ReStore is becoming synonymous with the act of giving back. ReStore is a resale shop in which donated new and used home improvement and building materials are sold in order to help fund Habitat for Humanity’s ongoing efforts of building homes in communities. The very essence of ReStore is philanthropic. Recently ReStore is pushing its way into becoming a facilitator of community service as well as a retail store.

Kim DeRisi, ReStore Manager, has begun a monthly collection in order to help other organizations and charities. The collections, which started in February with the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, offer a 20 percent discount on any single ReStore product when wish list items are brought in to help support the drive.

There is such a need with all of the organizations, especially with our economy. We need help to grow,” DeRisi said. DeRisi’s goal with beginning this program is to create awareness and help the other charities. In February’s donation to the Food Bank, 36 cans were collected at ReStore. Ultimately, DeRisi would like to see the collections become bigger every year.

 

The next collection is set for Thursday, March 17 through Saturday, March 19. Items needed are dog and cat food, leashes, litter, and pet carriers as well as cleaning supplies such as bleach, laundry detergent and blue Dawn dish soap. Items will be donated to the Crown Point Humane Society.

In addition to the charitable collections, ReStore is also looking to start community volunteer projects as well as acquire more volunteer participation within the store. Genae Barron, Volunteer Coordinator for ReStore, believes ReStore survives off of the generosity of others and its volunteers.

They’re the heart of the ReStore, they keep it alive,” Barron said. According to Barron, ReStore is looking for volunteers to help with maintaining the store and merchandise, as well as those who are good with dealing with customers.

Once the community service projects begin, volunteers will also be needed. Currently, a project is in the creation phase for Earth Day in April.

To find out how to volunteer with ReStore, the collections, or about Habitat for Humanity, call (219) 923-7265, or visit ReStore at 6114 W. Ridge Road.