Tucked away on the corner of Slater and Beach is the Huntington Beach chapter of the Assistance League organization. Founded in 1930 by Ada Laughlin and Anne Banning, this national organization was created after the 1904 San Francisco earthquake.
The Huntington Beach chapter is one of the oldest chapters and has been serving the community since 1958. This volunteer organization runs a thrift shop that is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday and features multiple sections of clothing, accessories, housewares and books with some items priced under $1.
These quality items are priced lower than much of the ‘mainstream’ thrift stores, and their corner boutique features high-end brand name clothing and home décor items.
“We get lots and lots of young people who love our retro and vintage section,” Assistance League volunteer Mary Ackman said. This shop has everything, from luggage to home decor to jewelry to vintage prom dresses. They receive the items they sell solely from donations, and they are on track to do over $700,000 in sales for this year alone.
The best part about this volunteer run thrift shop is that all the money goes back to the community. Moving like a well-oiled machine, this chapter has over 300 unpaid volunteers and always welcomes new members.
Assistance League serves the communities of Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach and Westminster through more than 13 different philanthropic programs.
Operation School Bell is their signature program, providing essentials such as new school clothes, supplies, health items, books and food to financially struggling and homeless students. Another program that has a big impact on our community is Links to Learning, giving grants to teachers to help fund special programs or instructional materials that enrich students’ educational experiences. They are also proud to support veterans, college students, nurses, police cadets and Junior Lifeguards with scholarship opportunities.
Serving underprivileged children, families, single parents and seniors, it seems as if every issue is met with love and support from the Assistance League volunteers.
What really sets this specific chapter apart from the other Assistance League stores out there is the pure dedication to the program.
“We are one of the most successful [chapters], we've been almost 75 years. There are a lot of very professional women who have propelled this to the next level,” Ackman said.
By being 100% volunteer run, The Assistance League of Huntington Beach is proud of their history and how their philanthropic impact on the community continues to help anyone in need. You can learn more at www.ALHB.org.