During the COVID-19 Pandemic just about every local organization and small business has been affected financially. This is especially true for youth organizations and school groups. Besides trying navigate distance learning and the social isolation many students have experienced, youth groups’ ability to raise funds for enrichment activities has been severely hamstrung.
As a way to help, Nevada County Habitat for Humanity ReStore has initiated two valuable programs that will not only help raise funds for local youth organizations, but also teach life skills while creating a stronger sense of how they can contribute to the community.
The Small Engine Repair Collaboration program (SMER) enables youth partners and schools to take 2-cycle equipment (edgers, weed whackers, trimmers, et.) donated to ReStore and, with adult supervision and training, troubleshoot and repair the equipment. The refurbished equipment is then displayed for sale at ReStore. Proceeds from sales of SMER equipment is split 50/50 between the youth partner and ReStore. It is estimated that up to 3,000 pounds of waste is diverted from local landfills due to this program. Currently ReStore is partnering with Nevada Joint Union High School as a partner.
A second initiative, the Small Gift program(SMG) partners with local youth organizations to assemble a specifically designed product line of household items and craft gifts to be sold at ReStore. All of the materials for these specialty items have been donated to ReStore. Each items has directions and step-by-step color photos, easy to follow templates, and a list of tools needed. A separate space located near the front entry of the store has been created for these items, along with signage promoting the items and the youth partners responsible for their creations. Proceeds are split 50/50.
“We know first-hand how difficult it’s been to navigate through the pandemic,” says ReStore Manager Mary Gill. “We wanted to find a meaningful way to engage with and help local youth. The community is so generous, especially in their support of the Habitat mission. Giving back is a value we cherish, and we wanted to do our part in helping young people become engaged with a philanthropic activity while also gaining valuable skills.”
While space is limited for both programs, ReStore is open to additional partnerships. Please call (530)274-3761 for more details.