Rescued Treasures off to great start in new location

To the Editor:

The board of the Humane Society of Putnam County wishes to express its gratitude to everyone who participated in making the first week of operations in its relocated thrift store, Rescued Treasures, such a resounding success.

Moving and settling into a new retail location are never easy tasks, especially when done completely with unpaid labor. More than 500 volunteer hours were spent in preparation for our new store.

Although very appreciative of everyone's services, we want to make special mention of those who devoted countless hours and energy to the task: Monica Sargent (who worked 20 consecutive days), her family, Don Williams (our handyman and truck driver), Anne Clark, Tracie Curtis, Martie Roof and Whitney Morrill.

We also are grateful to the help we received from many other volunteers, which included devoted Humane Society supporters, DePauw students, Comprehensive Services, and the newly formed South Putnam Interact Club. These volunteers, plus many more, continue to staff our store. There would be no "Rescued Treasures" without them.

Success could not be possible without the generosity of Keith Brackney, who has provided us with a great space and a great location (the old Brackney's Western Store building on U.S. 231 North) under terms affordable to our financially struggling organization. He is a true animal lover and, like our volunteers, wants to do what he can to help reopen the shelter.

Understanding the spirit of Keith's philanthropy, Steve Perkins of Perkins Furnace, repaired the building's heating system free of charge.

Success of a nonprofit thrift shop also is dependent on receiving valued donations. The community has been extremely generous. Many donors have stated that they want to do what they can to help our cause and are happy to know that all our profits help the Humane Society and Putnam County. Our customers have been thrilled with the "treasures" they find.

Success of the store is an integral part of our long-term plan to reopen our shelter. Not only will its income help pay off incurred debt, but also will help establish a sustainable revenue stream for future shelter operations.

Again, a big thank you to all that helped us get off to such a great start!

Lynn Bohmer

Humane Society of Putnam County

Board of Directors