By Sharon De Freitas, Director of Business Development & Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
Amidst the lively ambiance of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), where friendly chatter intertwines with the rhythm of bustling footsteps, a new chapter is about to unfold. In April 2023, the campus experience was enriched with the inauguration of the USC’s very own on-campus Thrift ‘N Valley Store, igniting a spirit of community and sustainability. Now, as the store celebrates its one-year anniversary, it prepares for a momentous relocation to a new, dedicated space within the university grounds.
Previously nestled within the confines of the USC Bookstore, the KindHearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store is poised to embark on a new journey in its very own location, formerly known as “The Barn”. This strategic move comes as a result of the store’s remarkable success and burgeoning growth over the past year.
Piloted by visionary alumni and fueled by the unwavering support of donors, both locally and overseas, the USC Thrift ‘N Valley Store has become a beacon of philanthropy and community engagement. Generous contributions of time and resources from USC alumni and friends have played a pivotal role in the store’s evolution, embodying a spirit of dedication and commitment to the university’s mission.
With over $90,000.00 in sales generated to date, the Thrift ‘N Valley Store stands as a testament to USC’s commitment to educational excellence and holistic student development. All proceeds from the store are directed towards student scholarships or other projects specified by donors, furthering the university’s mandate to nurture the “head, heart, and hand” of its community.
Moreover, the store has provided invaluable opportunities for student involvement, offering job training, internships, and practical skill development that complement the academic journey of USC students. This holistic approach to education underscores USC’s dedication to preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
As renovations are underway to transform the new 2000 plus square feet facility into a welcoming hub for shoppers and donors alike, anticipation builds within the USC community for the grand reopening of the KindHearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store at its new location. With its relocation, the store is poised to continue its legacy of fostering sustainability, supporting educational excellence, and empowering students to reach their fullest potential.
As the USC community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the revamped Thrift ‘N Valley Store, the spirit of philanthropy and camaraderie continues to thrive, echoing the university’s ethos of going beyond excellence in all endeavors.
