“Seconds To Go has been a very successful program,” store manager Laura Lorton. said “We’ve been in business for over 30 years and well over $1 million has gone into the Financial Aid Program to support deserving students who want to attend the schools.”
Sales pick up during the winter months and include holiday apparel and decorations from ornaments to menorahs.
“I’m very particular in what I take into the store,” Lorton said. “We take all kinds of clothing for women and men and receive a wide variety of products from beautiful designer shops that range in price. We also take in small household items such as books, home decor items, picture frames and kitchenware.”
Paid employees and volunteers run the shop and include parents from the school community who are encouraged to work at the store once at least year, according to Lorton.
“When I was in the shop I had a great experience working there,” Karen Niehaus, mother of junior Sarah Niehaus said. “I felt really welcomed into the shop when I worked there. It’s a great service opportunity to give back to the schools.”
Convent and Stuart Hall Highschool students who volunteer can receive hours to fulfill their service requirements. Tasks for student volunteers include sorting and pricing items and helping run the cash register.
“I think the store is a really great way to give back to the community,” SHHS junior Essie Elsakkar said. “I’ve been working at the store for my community service elective at Stuart Hall for a few months now.”
Seconds To Go raised $250,000 over the past year and Lorton says she is hoping to raise a higher amount this year.
“Our reputation of being a high-quality thrift shop really adds to the experience when people come to the store,” Lorton said. “Although other stores come and go, we feel very much a part of the community on Fillmore Street.”