Visit the Mission Road Antique Mall and you may be surprised to find two booths (numbers 258 and 266) stocked with generous donations of furniture, pictures, paintings and home accessories from Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas’ TurnStyles Thrift Store.

TurnStyles’ volunteers, including dock workers, sorters, and a pricing team, work together to gather unusual or unique items to set aside to be considered for placement in the mall. Other volunteers select the product mix, price and transport the inventory where it is staged for sale to shoppers. Pictures of the inventory are also posted on Craigslist in order to target a larger audience.  The goal is not only to sell quality donations above the thrift store prices to provide a higher return, but also to promote the mission of Catholic Charities Joyce Kohn in the community.

The idea for this new concept came when volunteers noticed that nice furniture and decorative items, as well as antique pieces were being donated to TurnStyles. They also realized that these items could be sold for more than thrift store prices. The booths and the offering on Craigslist have resulted in some profitable results for Catholic Charities. For example, in one month alone the booths generated gross sales of $4,459.46 and net sales of $3,924.32.

Finding the right items to sell in the booths is done by our volunteers with a great eye for treasures. Our primary volunteers have experience in decorating, retail, and interest in dishes, antiques and accessories. Sometimes it’s that “Pier One” accessory that catches their eye. Other times it’s something whimsical that may draw a buyer into the booth. Shoppers know to expect reasonable prices and a variety of merchandise from which to choose. New merchandise is available day-to-day, due to the enthusiasm of the volunteers not to miss a good “picking day” at TurnStyles. This dedication to the mission has made Catholic Charities one of the top retail dealers at the Mission Road Antique Mall.

Please come visit our booths 258 and 266 at the Mall! We’re located in Corinth Square at 83rd and Mission Road. All proceeds from sales go directly back to Catholic Charities to support our many programs.