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On Tuesday, June 2, 2009, shoppers began to explore the spacious 4,000-square foot showroom at Finders Keepers thrift store in Mt. Morris, each on an individual quest to discover his or her perfect hidden treasure.

But not all of the best discoveries at Finders Keepers are found on the store shelves. For shop employees, many of whom have developmental disabilities, the greatest treasure is the chance to contribute to the economic and social fabric of their community.

“It’s about integration,” says Judy Welch, Coordinator of Vocational Services for The Arc of Livingston-Wyoming, a private, not-for-profit agency that serves people with disabilities. “It’s exciting that people now have the chance to meet and interact with folks from our agency.” Finders Keepers employs Arc consumers as associates on the sales floor, as well as behind-the-scenes as “sorters” to ensure that the diverse, constantly-changing inventory is clean, properly organized, and well-stocked.

Located at 86 Main Street in Mt. Morris, Finders Keepers opened its doors for business on Tuesday, June 2 with a well-attended grand opening ceremony.

Finders Keepers sells women’s and men’s clothing, home decorations, holiday items, furniture, sporting goods, small appliances, and other items. “It’s a big store, and we want to keep it filled with quality items for community members to browse and purchase,” Store Manager Bud Howe says.

All proceeds from the store are used to enhance work programs for people with disabilities in the local area.

For those wishing to donate new or gently used items, Finders Keepers accepts donations at the shop or via a 24-hour drop-box located near The Arc’s “Hilltop Industries” workshop at 3 East State Street in Mt. Morris. All donations are tax deductable.  Finders Keepers is also seeking volunteers to assist staff and consumers with decorating, sorting, and picking up donations.

• Donation Guide — How you can help, including examples of items accepted as donations.
• Items We Cannot Accept

For more information, call Bud Howe at 585.658.2358.

Finders Keepers • 86 Main Street • Mount Morris, NY 14510