In this session, we uncover the incredible journey of John Kunzelman, manager of a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and a true pioneer in redefining what thrift truly means. Get ready to be inspired as John shares his leadership playbook for cultivating success far beyond the balance sheet. He'llreveal how he transforms a simple store into a powerful engine for change, from groundbreaking sales strategies that ignite growth, to the power of social media in fostering deep community engagement, and the invaluable role ofthe volunteers and staff who are the very lifeblood of these operations and the key to his success.

While selling goods and accepting donations are certainly part of what a thrift store does, John proves that what it is is about building relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and demonstrating that with the right leadership, a thrift store can become a cornerstone of community impact. Tune in to this "Secondhand Session" and discover how John'sunwavering commitment to people, innovation, and mission culminates in a powerful testament to the idea that thrift is so much more than just a store.

https://habitatsusq.org/restore/

John Kunzelman

JKunzelman@habitatsusq.org

Store Manager

Aberdeen ReStore

1013 Beards Hill RD

Ste. 300

Aberdeen, MD 21001

In the face of unprecedented obstacles, have you built a team you'd "go to war with"? A team ready to confront any challenge, big or small, with resilience and unity? If you aspire to cultivate such a powerhouse team and are seeking data-driven insights to navigate the complex world of non-profit thrift, then you absolutely cannot miss this epic, vulnerable, and powerful session.

Join us for a conversation that inspired the Podcast, a truly impactful conversation with Angy Smith from Habitat LA, who shares her extraordinary journey in the non-profit thrift industry. While the devastating impact of wildfires on the community and the innovative responses to support those affected form a central theme, Angy's insights extend far beyond. She delves into the broader landscape of significant challenges in non-profit thrift, including the ongoing repercussions of the post-COVID era and the critical need for compassionate leadership during difficult decisions like workforce reductions.

Angy’s message to the thrift community is a testament to the power of a positive organizational culture and the imperative of adapting to evolving consumer needs. This conversation is not just about overcoming adversity; it's about building a robust, sustainable future for non-profit thrift as an indispensable community resource. Tune in for a session that will challenge your perspective and empower your team.

Contact Angy:

asmith@habitatla.org

In this session, Greg Bradley, an expert in the thrift store industry with Recolor (a recycled paint company), shared invaluable insights into the unique world of thrift operations. He "Paints" a clear message: empowering operators is essential for growth.

Bradley highlighted the need for thrift store managers to feel equipped and encouraged to make decisions and embrace innovation within their programs. This autonomy allows them to adapt to evolving market conditions and community needs, ultimately driving success. He also discussed the strategic benefits of purchasing products to enhance store offerings, further empowering operators to diversify and grow.

The conversation covered the distinct challenges and opportunities present in both smaller and larger thrift stores, underscoring the importance of community engagement and collaborative strategies. For anyone involved in the thrift sector, from leadership to local community leaders, Bradley's insights provide a clear roadmap for fostering environments where operators can thrive, innovate, and expand their programs.

Contact:

Greg Bradley greg@recolorpaints.com

https://recolorpaints.com/