We are frequently depressed these days by negative reports in the news of the devastating impact that abrupt changes in federal and state government functions and programs are having on our lives. Our quality of life and the unique features that make Shepherdstown such a special place are dependent, to a large extent, on the Inherent mix of private, religious and civic-minded organizations that make important contributions. it really comes down to having good neighbors, being good neighbors and caring about each other — what we always proudly thought of as an essential part of the American character.

In my years of working in Civil Emergency Planning at NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), we used to call it “soft power.” So, in this profoundly negative environment, it is refreshing to encounter something uniquely positive.

Recently on the agenda of the Trinity Episcopal Church vestry meeting, there was an unobtrusive item — “to review and approve allocation of the proceeds from operation of our Thrift Shop.” This process, which is carried out several times a year, allocates in equal amounts thrift shop earnings to an impressive current list of 14 different organizations, including the Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department, Shepherdstown Shares, Shepherdstown Day Care and the Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County.

In the past several years, the annual total has averaged around $ 24,000-25,000. It is important to note that none of the funds raised by the diligent efforts of the thrift shop ladies goes to Trinity Episcopal Church itself.

Trinity Thrift Shop, a small two-story brick house on the alley behind the church, receives donations from various sources, many of which are caring, thoughtful families.

Each Wednesday, the staff of volunteers sort and decide which items are appropriate for stocking of the shop. Items not retained are given to Good Will, the Martinsburg Union Rescue Mission and other local charitable organizations. Currently, a total of 38 devoted ladies volunteer to receive, sort, display and manage the store. More than half of them are not members of the Trinity Episcopal Church congregation. For me, they faithfully sort out and save donated books each week, which I add to the Shepherdstown Community Club’s collection for its annual Legendary Book Sale. When you visit, you will be impressed by the lively repartee of fully engaged volunteers, who obviously enjoy their work and each other. The store is open for contributions and business from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

Trinity Thrift Shop is a remarkably positive and important contribution to our community, in its work supporting the many wonderful organizations that help make Shepherdstown the unique and very special place that it is. A fact that is all the more important in these troubled times!

Mike Austin, of Shepherdstown