The Society of St. Vincent DePaul has launched a capital campaign to fund an expansion of the former Colonnade building at 312 N. Jackson Street into a center that will consolidate all of its operations in one site and be large enough to meet increasing needs.
Andy Graf, President of the Society, stated that all people of Good Will are invited to join together in this community project, since the thrift store truly serves the entire community.
Graf related that he is not a Perry County native and before he moved here, he had heard the expression “Perry County is different – they take care of their own.” He wondered what exactly this meant.
After he became a Perry County resident, he saw how people gathered to support families who had lost a loved one. He was amazed how the community quickly organized and worked tirelessly to assist families affected by the tornado.
He watched organizations, including youth groups, give generously in various service projects. But, he said he really understood the full meaning of this “taking care of their own” when he started to volunteer at the Society of St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store where the community donate items to the thrift store, volunteers work countless hours to prepare the items for resale, the community purchase the “treasures,” and then the money generated goes back to help neighbors-in-need in the community -- regardless of their status in life, their ethnic background, or their faith. He understood how generous and caring this community really is.
According to Graf, “Perry County is made up of hard-working people, but many are one to two pay checks away from financial disaster whenever a prolonged medical problem or other unforeseen serious emergency arises. Where can one turn for help?
“For over 25 years the Perryville Society, with its 100 plus volunteers, has generated funds through operating the thrift store and then collaborated with other organizations to help neighbors-in-need pay rent, cover utility bills, etc. But, the number of neighbors who are coming to us is increasing and the amount they need to cover essentials is growing as well. We need to sell more clothes, dishes, furniture, etc. To do this, we need more space and increased efficiency.
“Your assistance is needed. Will you, as individuals and community, join together to help fund the expansion of the thrift store? Will you help us to help others? Every gift is greatly appreciated!”
