Just finished reading your article on nonprofit thrift stores, such as The Salvation Army and Goodwill (“The thrifts that keep on giving,” SV Weekend, Feb. 9). We do have a wonderful thrift store right here in Dixon that is very unique. The Leydig Center has been in existence as a 501(C)(3) for almost 50 years, and its founder, Eurith Leydig, and friends helped people 50 years before that.
We now have 80 to 100 dedicated volunteers who donate approximately 200 hours a day, some giving a couple of hours a week and others up to 30. We have customers who are waiting to get in on the 3 days that we are open, no matter the weather, (not counting the terrible weather we have had this month). We have given a total of $3 million since its beginnings and almost as much, called in kind, for those who have a need.
Over the years, we have given to 80-plus organizations. We now help support several agencies every month, including The Salvation Army, Emergency Needs, Food Pantry, Food Bank, PADS and Kreider. Other organizations can request funds which are then considered by our board.
We are a totally volunteer organization, with all proceeds going back to the community by way of donations or to pay bills. It would be hard to imagine not having The Leydig Center, where people shop, bring donations, support the community in the way of funds, and feel as if they are contributing by volunteering their time to help others. We can always use more volunteers, so if you happen to have a little extra time, give us a thought. We do have a Facebook page, so check us out.