We've all heard the lyrics, “There's no business like show business.” This sentiment can be applied to businesses that recycle, recycle, and give back to those in need, strengthening the economy overall. Flagstaff has a thriving nonprofit thrift store industry, and in honor of National Nonprofit Thrift Shop Day on August 17, seven stores will come together from August 1 to 17 to hold the second annual Thrift Shop Crawl event.

In 2023, Assistance League Flagstaff (ALF) led the first crawl, which included a proclamation from Mayor Becky Daggett extolling the benefits of recycling and the generosity of organizations that raise funds through thrift stores to help vulnerable adults and children, provide shelter for victims of domestic violence, and build more affordable housing.

The tradition continues this summer: Shoppers can pick up their 2024 Thrift Store Crawl Passports starting Aug. 1 at the following locations:

• Cedar Closet Thrift Shop, 2919 N. West Street
• Thrift for Goodness Sake, 2 South Beaver Street
• Hodgepodge Thrift Store, 452 N. Switzer Canyon Drive.
• Sharon's Attic, 1926 Fourth Street
• Habitat for Humanity Restore, 2016 N. Fourth Street
• Faithworks Thrift Shop, 2708 N. Fourth St.
• St. Vincent de Paul, 2113 N. East Street

Assistance League volunteers say it's easy to participate. “All you have to do is collect your passport and have it stamped or punched at four or more participating stores,” says Annie Conley, public relations chair for Assistance League Flagstaff. “Once you turn in your full passport, you'll receive discounts at the stores you select through August 17th. You'll also be entered into a drawing for a gift valued at $50. The winner doesn't even have to be on-site.”

The big raffle will be held Saturday, Aug. 17, at Cedar Closet Thrift Shop.

Assistance League volunteers say shopping at thrift stores is the best way to reduce environmental waste from “fast fashion,” cheap clothing made from plastic-based materials that impact the environment when they decompose in landfills.

““Shopping at thrift stores is not only environmentally friendly and a way to find great treasures for little money, it's also fun!” says Conley. “You can create your own unique outfit, decorate with vintage décor, or find the perfect toy for your kids or grandkids.”

““We are so excited to lead this collaborative effort of Flagstaff's seven nonprofit thrift shops,” said Lori Gardner, ALF member and Thrift Crawl chair. “One more than last year! Cross-promotion is great for our customers; it exposes thrift shoppers to new places; and the bottom line is that as our customer base grows, we all raise more funds for the specific charities we support. Cedar Closet has definitely seen an increase in shoppers during the 2023 crawl, with many returning.”

Locals and visitors can pick up the Flagstaff Thrift Store Map at the visitor centers at Route 66 train stations and at most thrift stores.

““We encourage people to shop around and find bargains while knowing that they are supporting individuals and families in need in our community,” Gardner said. “Recycling is good business!” FBN

By Lynn Timmons Edwards, Special to FBN

Lynn Timmons Edwards is a volunteer with Assistance League Flagstaff.