THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 45, NO. 35 | APRIL 26, 2024
TURNSTYLES TURNS 20
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
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ISSION — The first Catholic Charities T u r n Styles Thrift Store opened its doors on Valentine’s Day 2014. Twenty years later, there are three thriving TurnStyles — two in Overland Park and the most recent addition in Mission. “It has been truly amazing to see how this ministry has grown over the last 20 years,” said Carol Cowdrey, vice president of marketing and communications for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. “To think it evolved from a small group of donors who wanted to contribute to those in need.” TurnStyles administrative assistant Shirley Holland has been around from that start. “It originated from our Catholic Charities location in Wyandotte County on Central (Avenue), in our assembly room,” she said. As the room filled with donations, someone suggested the idea of opening a thrift store “And it kind of took off,” said Cowdrey. “It was very volunteer-driven, and it still is.” Mission store manager Anthony Avis has been with TurnStyles for nine years, renovating the 87th St. store and opening the Mission store; he’s impressed with the growth he’s seen. “It’s changed in a good way,” he said. “It was a mom-and-pop store. But now, we’re definitely ramping it up — the growth has been fantastic.” Volunteers are the force behind TurnStyles’ success. “Our volunteers are amazing,” said Avis. “It’s such a blessing that they give of their time, and all
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD
TurnStyles, Mission, store manager Anthony Avis likes to spend time on the sales floor welcoming customers and helping volunteers.
Shop at TurnStyles For store locations, hours and discount incentives, go online to: catholiccharitiesks.org/ turnstyles.
of them do it for different reasons — some of them want to give back. Some find friends here. “We have a few around who have been here from the beginning of TurnStyles.”
Volunteer efforts are reflected in shoppers’ experience of a clean, neat, boutique-style shop. Gently used items are meticulously inspected before they’re placed on the sales floor. “I think people are amazed to see the selection we have,” said Cowdrey. “We have a lot of designer brands. You can get vintage things and new items.” Recently, TurnStyles has developed a partnership with Walmart. >> See “STORES” on page 5
The best donations • Home decor and artwork, especially from places like World Market or Pier One • Anything new that has a tag • Vintage clothing • Anything Chiefs • Anything specific to Kansas City • Jewelry • Gently used electronics • Flat screen TVs • Toys in good condition, especially Legos