LACASA Center’s charity resale boutique, the LACASA Collection, recently completed a major expansion project.
The store, located in the Kroger/Crossroads Town Center in Howell, first opened its doors just seven months ago, in September 2017. All store proceeds directly return to LACASA Center to fund critical programs for local victims of child abuse and interpersonal violence.
“When the space next door to us became available, we were excited about the opportunity to expand,” said LACASA Collection Retail Director Danial Jones. “The additional square footage not only allows us to accept more furniture donations, but provides much-needed space to display the pieces properly.”
Construction on the project began six weeks ago and increased the store’s size by 1,400 square feet.
“We now have a total of 6400 square feet, which encompasses our sales floor and behind-the-scenes donation station and storage areas,” Jones said.
“Our store serves many purposes,” Jones said. “Not only does it help provide sustainable funding for LACASA Center, it also is a place where LACASA clients can shop with dignity for the things they need at no charge. We have clients who shop here to get appropriate clothing to wear to court proceedings, to work, and to job interviews. They also shop for things for they need for their children or their households.”
The upscale resale boutique features one-of-a-kind items including furniture and home décor, china and kitchenware; jewelry and accessories; kids’ gear; and clothing for the entire family.
“We are extremely grateful for the many companies, contractors and volunteer organizations that donated their time and services to complete this project,” said LACASA President & CEO Bobette Schrandt. “Enough can’t be said about the generosity of the business owners and residents of Livingston County.”
Several businesses, individuals and organizations donated their expertise and skills on the project including: Lindhout Associates Architects of Brighton; Dexterity Construction Co., Inc. of Howell; Project Director Halsey Pierson; Glover Electric Ltd. of Fowlerville; and members of the Livingston Sunrise Rotary Club.
“The community continues to touch our hearts — both in the ways they contribute their services and talents, to the many lovely treasures they donate to the store,” Schrandt said. “Our supporters clearly go out of their way to bring us high-quality things that they know will be re-used and re-loved.”
The store’s new section features a mix of timber and slate accents, along with a stone fireplace.
“We moved our men’s department into this space,” Jones said. “It has a rustic feel and provides a comfortable setting for men to shop.”
To better accommodate moms and kids, the size of the children’s department has nearly doubled.
“We’ve created a much larger area for infant and children’s clothing, kids’ gear, toys, games, and books,” said Jones. “The new layout includes a center space where kids can play while moms shop.”
According to Schrandt, the expansion means that the store needs to boost its volunteer team.
“We are looking for volunteers to assist on the sales floor or in our donation intake area. Volunteers are an essential part of our nonprofit organization,” Schrandt said. “We could not do what we do at the LACASA Collection or at LACASA Center without the helping hands of so many talented and dedicated people.”
The LACASA Collection is open seven days a week and is located at 120 W. Highland Rd., Suite 100, Kroger/Crossroads Town Center, in Howell. To learn more, visit lacasacollection.org.
