Stationed in the heart of Downtown Mansfield, What Goes ‘Round, a non-profit thrift store, aims at giving back to those in need.
“We’re a good mix with the downtown area,” said store manager Cindy McConnell. “We try to do everything we can to be a part of the community and support Richland County, so we speak to different groups to spread the word about what we’re doing.”
Each store item is donated; any donation that isn’t sold is given to one of their eight partner agencies, including the Domestic Violence Shelter or Toy Time Inc.
Profits benefit Hospice of North Central Ohio, and last year, the store raised $96,000.
McConnell noted, “People want to give back to hospice, but it cannot always be done monetarily, so people can volunteer or donate their old things and truly make a difference in that way.”
What Goes’ Round is supported by a solid volunteer-base of 75 volunteers.
“I want to brag on my volunteers. If it wasn’t for our volunteer base we could not do all of this. They have incredible, giving hearts, and it is who we are as a business,” said McConnell.
Many of the volunteers were recruited from the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. 31 of the 75 volunteers have been with the store since its beginning nearly five years ago.
“We’re definitely a family,” said McConnell. “And we still take volunteers every day.”
One of the store’s featured events is its seasonal dollar sale; at the end of each season, items cost $1. Another event is the Spring Fling. Refreshments are offered as the store showcases designer pieces that will be offered in the upcoming season.
In an effort to expand its fundraising scope, What Goes ‘Round has its own eBay account in which people can donate items and the store can sell its donated items. Also, eBay account holders have the opportunity to donate a percentage of their profits to the thrift store.
McConnell, who used to work as a hair dresser, came out of a 13-year retirement because of the store. She stated, “One of the most rewarding aspects of being involved in this store is the wonderful stories I hear when people come in. We’re trying to give back to the community and we get so much more in return.”
To find out more information, stop in at 113 N. Main St. in downtown Mansfield.
