At last! A beautiful, newly decorated space for the Thrift Shop in the senior center wing of the Waterfront Park Community Center located on Brien Drive.

The Bainbridge Island shop had its grand re-opening in January, with well-trained, cheerful volunteers ready to assist the public with their purchases.

The Thrift Shop has been serving the community for over 20 years with well-priced items such as clothing, housewares, art, linens, jewelry, books and much, much more.

“We like to call ourselves ‘The Best Dollar Store on Bainbridge,’” said manager Judy Duffy.

A big part of the shop’s success comes from the very generous donations of merchandise from members of the community.

“And we are always in need of more donations,” Duffy told me.

Proceeds from sales at the Thrift Shop help support the many functions of the nonprofit Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center and needed member scholarships for some classes and activities.

The Thrift Shop, run solely by volunteers, is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sales have been brisk since the re-opening in January and more donations of previously owned merchandise would help increase inventory at this time.

“Please think of us before donating to the big thrift stores. Help us to serve our community with affordable and supportive goods,” said manager Duffy. “A very big thank you to those who have supported us through the years, either by your donations or purchasing of goods.”

As warm weather returns and we shift to our lighter-weight wardrobes, this is a good time to remember the Senior Center Thrift Shop’s need for additional merchandise. Those favorite summer clothes that still look so good on their hangers but seem to have shrunk alarmingly over the winter? Bring them in, along with all the books you’ve finished reading, puzzles and games you’ve finished playing, extra sets of dishes cluttering your cupboards, and any other items you no longer need. Thrift Shop customers may find just the items they were looking for. You will have helped them with their shopping, the senior center with its funding and yourself with more closet and shelf space.

For an extra treat each autumn, the Thrift Shop presents a fashion show featuring member models wearing clothing from the shop. A $5 donation includes refreshments, entertainment and a lot of humor.

This is a popular event you won’t want to miss. Watch for the upcoming event listed in the Splash, published by the senior center, and the calendar section of the Review.