The Winkler MCC Thrift Shop celebrated both its volunteers and its 50th anniversary at its appreciation luncheon and annual meeting Monday.
President Dave Penner offered thanks to the many board members, staff, and volunteers who have served over the years as well as the community for its support through both donations and shopping.
“Thanks to all the shoppers and customers, thank you for purchasing our products, giving MCC the opportunity to help less fortunate people all over the world for 50 years,” he said.
Speakers judged the past year as having been a successful one even with the Winkler MCC showing a deficit of just over $31,000—an amount that can easily be absorbed with the organization having a healthy bank balance, noted treasurer Don Klassen, who added they are optimistic about being in a surplus position next year.
“We almost reached out budget … still sent a half a million dollars to MCC, which is great, and we’re looking forward to a good new year,” said Penner.
He reflected on the 50-year milestone and touched on the beginnings going back to when a goodwill store was started in Winkler.
The formal organizational meeting to become the Winkler MCC happened in 1974. It has grown over the years and been located in numerous locations, starting with a former Bible school building on 8th St.
It eventually came to its current location on 4th St., where it has continued to expand. Penner recalled them having a mortgage burning ceremony in 2020, allowing them since then to put more funds into further improvements to their building.
He said it is hard to imagine what the total sales would now be after 50 years, but noted the total amount sent to MCC Manitoba over the years is about $14 million. In the same period, local grants handed out total about $375,000
Store manager Peter Kornelson reflected on being in his 14th year in the position.
He noted the past year saw the completion of a few projects, including finishing work on their roof as well as refurbishing the kitchen with donated cabinets.
“This next year, we only have one project coming up,” shared Kornelson. “We’re going to put money in to do bar coding. The board wants us to be progressive in our store and how we do things.
“We think the bar coding will help mainly for the most part in the till area. It will be faster and less confusion,” he suggested.
Kornelson concluded by expressing his gratitude for everyone who helps out and supports the MCC in Winkler.
“I enjoy coming to work with a group of people who are dedicated to a cause,” he said. “Thank you for volunteering your time. Time is a precious thing.”
