“It’s the atmosphere!” thrift store employee Mike answered when asked. “What is your favorite part of working at the mission?” He continued, “The atmosphere is the most important part of any company. When you feel comfortable around your co-workers, it makes you want to come to work in the morning.”

Over time, Mike has learned what is important. He says, “I went through the recovery program. I graduated five years ago and completed my vocational training here at the thrift store in the electronics department.” After that, Mike volunteered for an entire year. Then, he was employed as a cashier for three years. Recently, he has been promoted to pricing the bric-a-brac merchandise in the production department. Mike says, “I’ve been here six and a half years total. It’s a great place.

I love working here. I’m not surrounded by the old clan. I’m working with Christians. The people I work with are not just co-workers but I consider them my friends and that makes all the difference in the world. We all encourage each other and pray for each other.”

Passionate about what he does, Mike enjoys working with the program men and volunteers. He likes to teach them to be proud of what they are doing. “This is bigger than a thrift store,” states Mike. “We are a family. My goal is to work here and grow in the Lord. It’s hard to find a job where everybody is smiling and having a good time. We all work as a team. It’s like a home.”

Whether it is in our programs, in our outreaches, or the support ministry of our thrift stores, the rescue mission seeks to have a healthy comfortable atmosphere where lives are changed for good. Today, would you consider joining the family and volunteering with us or making a donation?