THE ANTHESIS THRIFT STORE IS A GREAT PLACE TO SHOP AND DISCOVER UNIQUE TREASURES.
But, did you also know it is where people with intellectual and development disabilities can develop important job skills?
Our Thrift Store provides employment training and hands-on retail experience.
We support independent and inclusive lives for adults with disabilities through employment and community integration at our thrift store.
Since 1999 our thrift store has been a vital part of our program and our community. This second-hand store helps us raise money that we can use to support our programs. Just as important, it is a safe and nurturing environment to grow and feel a part of our greater community. In this store, people develop valuable social skills and practice new job skills. Our amazing job coaches for the store guide and nurture them along the way.
Our Employees Learn Valuable Job Skills
By working with customers to help find unique vintage goods, the employees are learning how to provide excellent customer service. They are also learning the practical skills of running a store. For example, they learn how to set up merchandise, participate in inventory management, and work a cash register. Finally, they get experience what goes into opening and closing a retail space, such as getting the store ready for customers in the morning, and cleaning up once the store is closed.
Working at the Thrift Stores Boosts Confidence
The social skills people develop and the job skills learned as thrift store employees give our participants confidence and real-world experience they can use when looking for a job within our broader community. Many who have worked here have moved on to work in other work settings in the local area, such as working in restaurants and other retail establishments.
The next time you are in Montclair, we hope you stop by our thrift store. You never know what kind of treasures you will find, and you will be sure to be served with a smile!