Ingleside at Rock Creek has long strived to foster a strong sense of camaraderie among its community. Whenever staff, residents, or visitors need a new kitchen gadget or clothing, there’s always a good chance they’ll find what they’re looking for at The Shoppe, a community thrift store solely run by residents.
The Service Board initially started The Shoppe, operating it for many years in another location on the Ingleside campus. Once the Service Board closed The Shoppe, a committee of residents, chaired by Ginni Gorman and Karen Jacob, was formed. The Shoppe Committee organized and set up The Shoppe in the Manor House.
The Shoppe has now been revamped into a resident-run retail hub that sells donated men’s and women’s clothing, home goods, kitchenware items, jewelry, and various knickknacks. The Shoppe Committee runs The Shoppe, and all those who help operate it are committee members. It is open from 1–3 p.m. on Tuesdays and 11 a.m.–1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays. It accepts both cash and check, and all are welcome to check it out and shop.
Ginni Gorman, a Shoppe Committee chair, said she envisions the thrift store as a community gathering place where people can come together to shop, donate items, and connect with one another.
“It feels wonderful to partake in something that benefits the community,“ she said,” as many of the proceeds from The Shoppe go towards financial grants for projects, programs, and facilities such as the Health Center.”
Opening The Shoppe to the neighboring communities spreads the word about Ingleside as a senior living community. By increasing awareness and engagement, The Shoppe helps showcase the vibrancy and involvement of Ingleside’s residents.
Karen Jacob, the other chair of the Shoppe Committee, said the community’s response to the boutique exceeded her expectations since reopening. The store has received so much support that the Committee is now considering opening its doors during the weekends.
“We hope to begin opening The Shoppe one Saturday a month, when parking is easier and there is an opportunity to attract a larger audience of shoppers,” Karen shared. “Opening a thrift store in our community is a great way to keep Ingleside at Rock Creek vibrant and welcoming for all those who would like to stop by and shop or donate.”
Shoppers at The Shoppe include not only residents but also staff, private duty aides, family members, and people from surrounding neighborhoods.
For more information on The Shoppe at Ingleside at Rock Creek or other programs, contact (240) 557-2918 or visit https://inglesideonline.org/ingleside-rock-creek/.