Thrift Haus set for extreme makeover

The Soroptimist Club of Whitefish is giving its Thrift Haus store a major makeover later this month in what the group is calling a “blitz build” because the work will be completed in seven days.

“It’s going to be so much fun,” said Janice McCann. “This is a complete update for us. We’re not going to change our prices, but we are going to make a better shopping experience.”

The build will take place July 17-23. During that time, a false ceiling inside the store will be removed and new windows will be installed to add more natural light. The floors will be redone and the layout of the store will be reconfigured.

Soroptimist volunteer members operate the Thrift Haus and use the proceeds from the store to donate to a variety of area nonprofit groups. Last year more than $120,000 was given to other groups.

Denman Construction and other local subcontractors are donating services to make the remodel possible for the nonprofit group. Pella Windows has donated the windows and other local businesses have donated building materials.

McCann said Denman’s architect approached the Thrift Haus with some ideas to improve the building and support the nonprofit.

“They thought it was a great project to help out the community and we agreed,” she said.

Soroptimist is looking for a little more community support as it readies the shop for the remodel. All of the merchandise will have to be removed prior to construction, and relocated to trailers outside the building.

The Thrift Haus is looking for volunteers to move store inventory on Sunday, July 14 from 1-6 p.m.; on Monday, July 15 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and Tuesday, July 16 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

“We supply a great service to the people in Whitefish,” McCann said. “This is the community’s store, but we can’t do it on our own. We need help.”

While the Thrift Haus will continue to accept donations during the construction, it will not be making sales during that time. Prior to the remodel, on Wednesday, July 10 to Saturday, July 13 the store will have a bag sale to help clear out merchandise.

Soroptimist International, a business women’s philanthropic organization, which focuses on raising funds to help women and children. The Whitefish club began 62 years ago.

The Thrift Haus has been the face of the Soroptimists. Members volunteer their time to run the shop on Lupfer and First Street.