Mennonite Weekly Review

SOUDERTON, Pa. — Volunteers fill many roles at Care & Share Thrift Shoppes.

They help sort, price and stock the shelves. They also work on database entry and scheduling.

Some volunteers also work toward self-sufficiency through the Employment, Advancement and Retention Network program, for which the shops are a nonprofit placement.

EARN provides comprehensive activities and services to individuals who are newly applying for Temporary Aid to Needy Families benefits as well as individuals who are already receiving TANF benefits. In the past year, 13 volunteers participated.

EARN participants and the staff of the program honored Care & Share Oct. 30 by preparing a luncheon and a time of recognition between the two agencies.

Diana Worman, coordinator of the EARN program, said participants need the skills of punctuality, taking directions and working well with coworkers.

“Care & Share has provided a warm and accepting environment where people can grow and develop,” she said. “Cookie-cutter approaches to personal growth are usually unsuccessful.

“Even though the program must work within the state guidelines and participants must meet those requirements, Care & Share has put a human face on those rules.”

Due to the current economic situation, more people are participating in the EARN program than ever before, so the need for additional not-for-profit organizations to partner with is great.

More information for organizations is available from Chris Michaels, case manager for the EARN program, at 215-258-7764.

The Care & Share Thrift Shoppes also participate in PA Working Wardrobe, a program providing clients with clothing for job interviews, training or work. More than 20 people have been assisted since this program began a year ago at the Care & Share.

Care & Share Thrift Shoppes have been serving the local community for more than 34 years. The shops are centrally located: 10 miles from Doylestown, 10 miles from Quakertown and eight miles from Lansdale. Local shoppers benefit from the availability of low-cost, high-quality items. Donors contribute to the recycling and conservation efforts that affect the broader community in positive ways. Funds raised benefit Mennonite Central Committee.