Keeping our valued volunteers informed
John Himes is Leading MCC Thrift in St Catharines
We’re delighted to share that John Himes has accepted the role of General Manager at MCC Thrift in St. Catharines, beginning February 1. John’s been part of the MCC Thrift family for nearly eight years and has served in a variety of roles, most recently as Assistant Manager. John cares deeply for this shop and for the volunteers who make it come alive every day. His leadership grows out of relationship, service, and a genuine desire to see our work make a difference locally and around the world.
We are thankful for John’s heart and energy that he brings to MCC. Volunteers are the backbone of MCC Thrift, and your support means so much as John steps into this new chapter.
With gratitude,
Lynda Lynch
MCC Ontario Thrift Director
Volunteer Engagement Manager Musings
By the time you are reading this February Volunteer Newsletter, the first month of 2026 has already come and gone. Sometimes it can be fun to look back and see where we have come from and how God has blessed, guided, and helped us along the way. However, if we keep looking back, we are sure to miss what is happening right in front of us or even what is right around the corner. Unfortunately, I have literally run into the occasional street pole, door frame, person or even lost my balance when I wasn’t keeping my eyes forward and watching where I was headed. I’ve learned too that having others walking along with me helps to make the journey more enjoyable, productive or bearable when times are difficult.
The Bible emphasizes this same idea in Ecclesiastes 4:9 NIRV when it says: “Two people are better than one. They can help each other in everything they do.” Let’s keep our eyes looking forward in 2026 as our staff and volunteer teams continue to work together at MCC Thrift helping and supporting each other to accomplish so much more together than would ever be possible on our own. I don’t want to miss what’s ahead, so I’m going to try to keep my eyes looking forward and I’m so thankful I’m not journeying alone.
Sherry Main
Volunteer Engagement Manager
MCC Thrift, St. Catharines
Grantham Mennonite Brethren Service Group
MCC Thrift had the opportunity to host a group from Grantham Mennonite Brethren Church on January 24th. John introduced the group of four to the work of MCC and MCC Thrift. After meeting some of our Saturday volunteers and gaining some “hands-on-experience” volunteering, we’re confident the time together helped increase the group’s awareness of volunteer opportunities we have.
Upcoming for Valentine’s Week
Come dressed in red/pink/hearts clothing for Valentine’s Week from Feb. 9 – 14. There will be treats and surprises.
BIRTHDAYS
Tim’s Farewell - January 27th
Tim was our General Manager for over 11 years at MCC Thrift, formerly known as the Christian Benefit Shop, and throughout that time, he has led with care, compassion and consistency. Tim has now stepped into a new General Manager role at MCC’s Thrift on Kent in Kitchener. Kitchener is going to benefit deeply from that same sense of community that we’ve experienced at MCC Thrift through Tim’s leadership. Tim helped us grow in our understanding of MCC’s impact, both locally and globally. He leads with deep faith that shapes how he works. He’s thoughtful, analytical, and never rushed into decisions. He listens, seeks understanding and leads with intentionality. We celebrated Tim’s 11-year service and gave him a box of blessings and well wishes from our volunteers along with a trophy for the “Above and Beyond General Manager Award.” Blessings to you, Tim!
MCC Thrift Popcorn Week
Things sure were popping at MCC Thrift from Jan. 19-24 to celebrate National Popcorn Day which was on January 17th. This special day was timely since we’re POP-PING with appreciation for our volunteers at MCC Thrift.
Do you Love Writing Cards or Talking on the Phone?
Join MCC Ontario in expressing appreciation through personal connection. The MCC Ontario Donor Relations team is looking for a few volunteers to help with writing thank you cards and making thank you phone calls as a way of sharing appreciation and building connections. If this volunteer opportunity sounds like something you - or someone you know - would enjoy, contact Volunteer Services at volunteerservices@mcco.ca for more details.
Reminder: All Thrift Shops Close on Family Day
February 16, 2026, as we observe Family Day. Please take Feb 16 as a day to recharge and enjoy time for yourself. Thank you for all you do!
Pancake Mix for Pancake Tuesday/Lent
If you recognize Lent, prepare for Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Tuesday) with a package of Better Battter Pancake and Waffle mix from Raw Carrot. shop.therawcarrot.com
