Everybody loves to go shopping, and everybody loves a bargain. Going home with a new treasure, whether its an item of clothing, a piece of jewelry or an essential household item, is always a great mood elevator and a lot of fun. But for savvy, in-the-know Miami shoppers who frequent The Coop, a new thrift shop/boutique in North Beach, shopping is about much more than the pleasure of discovering fabulous finds at affordable prices. Shopping at The Coop provides a bonus: the satisfaction of knowing that your purchasing power is supporting a worthy cause, helping others in need of healthcare services and empowering an entire community.
The Coop is a not-for-profit thrift shop that serves the local community while benefiting the Miami Beach Community Health Center (MBCHC), a federally qualified community health center that has been fulfilling its mission of providing high quality, affordable medical care and support services to underserved residents of the region for thirty-three years. MBCHC offers a full range of primary care, specialty care and preventive services that are available to all, regardless of ability to pay. It acts as a critical safety net to vulnerable individuals and families who lack insurance, have inadequate insurance or are indigent.
The Coop is the brainchild of three dynamic women who are committed to the MBCHC. Kathryn Abbate, MHA, Chief Executive Officer for MBCHC; Paula ONeill, chairman of the Centers Board of Directors; and Joan Gordon, manager of The Coop, joined their formidable forces together to develop this innovative initiative that is proving to be a winner for all parties: customers, donors, the MBCHC staff, the community and above all, the Center. Since opening last summer, The Coops eclectic mix of merchandise and its warm, upbeat ambience have attracted so many customers from the neighborhood as well as throughout the Miami region that they have already had to double the space.
“The Coop began as an addendum to our mission at Miami Beach Community Health Center and as an additional source of revenue,” says Abbate. “It has turned out to be a huge success, more so than we anticipated, for the Center and the community. North Beach is a true melting pot, and our customers are across the board. They include people from the neighborhood, employees from the Center and shoppers who simply love to discover great new places. The Coop is a fun place to come and the inexpensive prices make it possible for everyone to shop there.”
Merchandise at The Coop is diverse and constantly changing, as new donations come in on an almost daily basis. Shoppers can browse among new and gently used clothing for men, women and children; shoes and accessories; furniture and decorative items for the home; artwork and collectibles; small appliances, books and many other items. Occasionally, designer items are available, as well as new items with the price tags still attached. There are even specialty clothing sections featuring prom gowns, baptismal and First Communion dresses, and uniforms and scrubs for healthcare workers. Everything is donated, by individuals, or from estate sales. The store accepts major credit cards.
“We have a wonderful childrens section,” enthuses Joan Gordon. “Our accessories are fantastic and inexpensive, with many vintage items. Nothing here is broken; everything is in good condition.”
From the front door, which welcomes visitors with a cheery logo of three bright yellow chicks walking in a row, to the colorful displays, The Coop exudes hospitality. Its presided over by Gordon, whose personal warmth and enthusiasm sets the tone and keeps customers coming back. “I love managing this shop. Its the only thrift store in the area and the neighborhood loves having us here. We have regular customers who come in all the time; I keep a list of the things theyre looking for. The best thing about the store is that we have really cool things and you never know what you might find.”
“It takes a special type of person to do this,” says Abbate, “and Joan is the perfect person. Shes friendly and energetic and she makes it fun for everyone.”
Abbate, Gordon and ONeill, the “three chicks” in the stores logo, are friends who share a generosity of spirit and commitment to the community. Abbate has always enjoyed bargain hunting at thrift stores, and wanted to open one herself. They were able to get the shop up and running in a little over a month. “Were all like minded,” says Gordon. “Were givers.”
Many of The Coops customers are also givers, who both shop at and donate to the store. Donations, which are tax deductible, are always welcome, as are volunteers who can help sort merchandise, make sales and greet customers. Arrangements can be made to pick up items if donors are unable to drop them off.
