Kane County Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Store hosts volunteer appreciation event

On Saturday, Feb­ruary 7, the Kanab Thrift Store hosted a volunteer apprecia­tion event that truly reflected the heart of our small town. The evening began with a warm welcome from the store’s director, who took a moment to recognize the dedica­tion and generosity of every volunteer in the room. She remind­ed everyone that the thrift store is more than just a place to shop, it is a place where community happens. Of course, no celebra­tion is complete with­out something sweet. One of the volunteers generously prepared a spread of homemade desserts that were incredibly delicious. Then later an amaz­ing dinner was served. All the while the tal­ented local band the “blue marble” provided live entertainment. The cozy atmosphere, paired with good con­versation and even bet­ter snacks, made it feel less like an event and more like a big family gathering.

The highlight of the evening was a live­ly and creative gift exchange. I happily joined in and ended up receiving some much-needed kitchen washcloths. The game began with each partic­ipant exchanging their brought gift with some­one seated at another table. Once everyone had a present in front of them, a volunteer began reading a story about the thrift store. Every time she said the word “left,” we passed our gifts to the left. The same went for the word “right.” When the story concluded, whatever gift landed in front of you was yours to keep.

After the exhilarat­ing exchange, I made my way around the room, chatting with volunteers and their spouses. I asked one simple question “What is your favorite part of volunteering?” Nearly every person gave the same heartfelt answer “the people.” Whether they were referring to loyal customers, first-time visitors or fellow volunteers working side by side.

In this year alone, the thrift store raised roughly $300,000 to help fund equipment for the local hospi­tal. Every donated item sorted, every shift worked and ev­ery purchase made contributes directly to improving healthcare in our community.

One table shared what might be my favorite story of the night. A couple cel­ebrating their anni­versary had planned to see snow on top of the Grand Canyon cliffs. When their trip didn’t deliver the winter wonderland they had hoped for, they decided on a spontaneous drive to Kanab. By chance, they wandered into the thrift store. What started as a simple stop turned into a tradition.

Their experience was so memorable that they now return every year for their anniver­sary.

Volunteers have watched their family grow, from pregnancy, to welcoming their son, and in the following years, their daughter. Just outside the hos­pital stand plaques honoring the thrift store for its continued support. In a town like ours, that kind of impact means every­thing.

Here’s to our local thrift store volunteers!