Part of the Autumn window display entitled Fall into Finders Keepers; designed by Assistant Store Manager Deb Koch, kneeling. Also pictured is Store Manager "Bud" Howe. Photo by Tony D'Imperio.
At Finders Keepers, you can find everything from clown figurines to a comfortable matching chair and sofa; and you can keep them for a reasonable price. Kitchenware, books and kids’ toys are also sold at a bargain. It’s even okay for the kids to play with the toys — displayed at ‘kid level’ — while the accompanying adults shop!
And customers are welcome to read a book on the sofa that is part of the living room set-up.
Kellie Kennedy, Director of Day Services at the Arc’s Hilltop Industries, has been the leader in developing the vision of a thrift store into a reality, according to Finders Keepers Manager “Bud” Howe.
Finders Keepers is a win-win situation since all merchandise is donated, keeping prices very reasonable; and the ARC consumers who are employed learn skills that prepare them for jobs outside of the Arc.
Eight Arc consumers felt very proud to be selected as employees, and they are quite involved in the functions of a retail operation. “We don’t have a lot of absenteeism,” says “Bud.”
The consumers are a vital part of sorting articles when they come into the receiving room; there they learn to determine which items are in good enough shape to be displayed for sale in the store.
Finders Keepers’ well-designed layout, conveniently placed stock and clothing racks make it a pleasant place to shop. “We’re not a flea market, we’re a ‘unique boutique,’” emphasizes “Bud” Howe. “The big thing that we concentrate on here is customer service.”
Finders Keepers is located in the former Mount Morris Kitchen and Bath Center at 86 Main Street, Mount Morris. ARC leases the property, which keeps it on the tax rolls. Hours are Monday thru Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; on Thursdays until 7 p.m.. Phone at (585) 658-2358.
Complete story appears in our Sept. 17 print edition.