What began as a group of community members who wanted to give funds to nonprofit organizations has become a major fundraising outreach.

In 1978, the articles of incorporation were filed with the state of Nebraska for North Platte’s Thrift Center for the Handicapped. Since then, their mission has been to financially support nonprofits and charities in and around the North Platte area through revenue from the sale of donated items at the Thrift Center.

Managed by a board of directors, the center is operated by 30 volunteers who work in shifts each day. They tirelessly sort, organize and price the donated items, which are then sold in the store.

The Thrift Center is located at 218 W. Fourth St. The building was the former residence of the late North Platte Mayor Andy Larsen. Following his death, his estate sold the downtown property to the board. The center is open Mon. through Sat. from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

According to the board’s records, the Thrift Center has been able to make significant financial contributions to nonprofits and charities over the past six years. Since 2018, the center has donated $151,250 to other volunteer efforts, ministries and causes in North Platte and surrounding communities.

Shoppers can find a wide variety of gently used items for sale, including clothing, accessories, housewares, books and toys. Board President Bonnie Smith said the pricing is very reasonable, anywhere from 25 cents to $5, with most things falling in the $1-3 range.

People come from near and far to donate and shop at the Thrift Center. Volunteers said people have become loyal to the center and come from cities such as Lexington, Valentine and as far away as Holyoke, Colo.

The board and volunteer staff greatly appreciate the donations, for without them, there would be no source of revenue for the center. Smith kindly urges folks to be mindful of what they are donating. Torn, stained and broken items cannot be resold.

“Please do not donate trash,” she said. “Things that aren’t sellable just end up in our dumpsters.” Board member Jim Nisley said the cost of the center’s trash removal has doubled in the past two years and that can really take a bite out of the money the center is able to donate.

Smith and the board members agree that one of the best parts of being involved with the Thrift Center is the people they get to meet every week, who touch their hearts. Giving back to the community while socially interacting with others is a winning combination.

Thrift Center board members, from left, Lori Chaney, board president Bonnie Smith, Mary Lou Derman and Matt Phagan take a break during a busy day at the store. Photo by Teressa Sykora

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