Hope Costume & Thrift Store from Costumes to Conflict Resolution

Have you been into the Hope Costumes & Thrift store recently or even at all? This is our social enterprise, raising funds for the work of Teen Challenge. There’s been some changes. 

Physically we’ve knocked down walls, built walls and new change rooms. Extended the showroom space further into the building which now makes room for our new costume hire department. 

Racking has been changed, they’re a little lower, better spaced giving more room, opening up the showroom. The new air conditioning units, now create a delicious warmth upon entry from the chill outside. So much better for our customers and team members. We’re hearing comments like “You’ve changed everything, it looks so different, so much better”, “It’s brighter and you can now see more” and “I really love this place”. 

Did you know it’s more than just a thrift and costume store? We also mentor and train young people in retail here.  They not only learn customer service, merchandising and registers but learn life skills too, like conflict resolution, working with different personalities, confidence building, personal boundaries, teamwork and time management. 

The store has increased both our offerings to the public but especially to young people. We really need more help within this environment. Volunteers are needed to help with many day-to-day aspects, ensuring the shop raises funds for the youth programs.  We are registered as a Voluntary Work Organisation with Centrelink. If you’re over 55, you can volunteer 15 hours a week to help meet your Mutual Obligations requirements and in turn help bring hope and lasting change to young lives. 

Especially needed are people with great customer service that can help teach young people through example and instruction. People that can assist with sorting, washing and steaming garments and costumes. Collecting donations, doing the odd tip run, online stock promotion, displays and so much more. Please connect with Janice at manager@teenchallengetasmania.org or 0477 223 384 if you can help.