“Honestly, it feels like coming home,” said Gail. “I am thrilled to be a part of this great team of dedicated, talented volunteers who want to help fund and support our local hospital. I hope everyone is aware that proceeds from the thrift shop go towards helping St. Luke’s Hospital purchase needed medical equipment.”
From the donations of the community, all of the thrift shop’s proceeds, nearly $25,000 annually, go directly to St. Luke’s Hospital for the purchase of new equipment and other hospital needs.
Wendy Field, auxiliary president, said she is excited about the new manager.
“Gail knows the thrift shop business. She has enormous experience and success in that field. She appreciates our goals and the important mission we have undertaken: that of supporting St. Luke’s Hospital. She understands that our most important asset is our volunteers who serve and help us achieve these goals,” she said.
Gayle Cook, volunteer coordinator at St. Luke’s Hospital, said, “Gail is very positive and greets everyone with a smile. Our volunteers really like her and so do our customers.”
Born in Cambridge, Ohio, Dyer spent most of her life in Texas before moving to Polk County 24 years ago to be closer to her parents. She is a mother of three with four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Dyer is active in her congregation at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses and said she enjoys spending time with her family and her beloved dog, Cruiser.
“I’m so appreciative to have this opportunity at St. Luke’s and in my community. I have so many happy memories in the building where the thrift shop is located and plan to make many, many more!” Gail said.
Donations of clean, repaired clothing are appreciated. The St. Luke’s Thrift Shop also sells jewelry and home goods such as toasters and dishes, and now, because the new location has more space, the thrift shop has been accepting furniture.
There are always opportunities for volunteers at St. Luke’s Thrift Shop. Cashiers, sorters and pricers are needed.
The thrift shop is open six days a week and is located in downtown Tryon at 148 North Trade Street and operates Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. If you are interested in volunteering at the thrift shop or anywhere at St. Luke’s Hospital, please call Gayle Cook, volunteer coordinator, at 894-0895 for more information and an application.
– article submitted by Jennifer Wilson