Thrift Store Operations Volunteer
| Organization Details | |
|---|---|
| Organization Name: | The Purple Lotus Commons Inc |
| Address: | 1344 MAIN ST Winnipeg MB R2W 3T6 |
| Website: | http://thepurplelotuscommons.com |
| Organizational Description: | Purple Lotus Commons Inc. is a Winnipeg-based non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability. We operate a curated thrift store that sells quality, affordable clothing and unique items to the community. Proceeds from store sales are reinvested into our homelessness initiatives, including future plans to support affordable housing, transitional housing opportunities, and education-based supports that promote long-term stability and dignity. Our mission is to create sustainable community solutions by combining social enterprise with compassionate outreach. Through volunteer engagement, donated goods, and responsible stewardship, Purple Lotus Commons works toward providing safe, affordable housing options and empowering individuals with opportunities for growth and independence. |
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| Volunteer Opportunity Details | |
| Volunteer Opportunity ID: | 6211 |
| Description of Duties: | Volunteer Store Duties - Purple Lotus Commons Volunteers assist with day-to-day thrift store operations, including washing and drying donated clothing in-house, hanging clothing on hangers, tagging and pricing items, and marking knickknack and household items for sale. Duties also include organizing inventory, separating men's and women's clothing, folding and arranging children's clothing, and maintaining a tidy and welcoming store environment. Volunteers provide friendly greetings and basic hospitality to customers, helping create a positive and community-focused shopping experience. |
| Skills Required: | Skills & Qualifications (Preferred but Not Required)
Training will be provided for all tasks, including use of the cash register. |
| Skills Gained/Related Careers: | Skills Gained Volunteers will gain hands-on experience in retail operations, customer service, inventory organization, and point-of-sale (cash register) systems. They will develop skills in teamwork, communication, time management, merchandising, and community engagement. Volunteers will also gain exposure to social enterprise operations and nonprofit administration. As Purple Lotus Commons expands into affordable housing and supportive housing initiatives, volunteers may gain experience related to community outreach, housing support services, and working respectfully with individuals experiencing housing instability or disabilities. |
| Age: | 18-30, 31-54, 55+ |
| Time Commitment: | Daytime , Weekend , Flexible Hours Flexible hours |
| Location of volunteer opportunity: | Winnipeg - Inkster |
| Does opportunity require a criminal record check? | No |
| Does opportunity require a child abuse registry check? | No |
| Opportunity is available to candidates that: | Group - small, family and friends Group - large, corporate and schools Fulfilling volunteer hours for school credit Are able to attend with a support person Required to complete community service |
| Organization will provide: | A letter of reference Bus tickets Certificate of recognition Supervision Training/Orientation |
| How to Apply: |
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| Closing Date: | Mar 15, 2026 |
