Build your Resume at an MCC Thrift Shop!

Aaron Dawson has been getting valuable job experience: shipping/receiving, customer service, working the till, answering the phone and learning to direct calls appropriately. Aaron will be fifteen this summer and would like to get a part-time job. For many young people, putting together a resume is a challenge. Employers are looking for people with experience but you can't get experience unless you have a job. But Aaron's not worried; he knows his resume is going to look good. That's because he's taken part in the MCC Thrift Shop Resume Builder program, the brain-child of Marie Reimer, MCC BC's Provincial Thrift Shop Coordinator.

"I had an idea for something that would help the students when they go to apply for their first job and a way to connect young people with the work of MCC and Thrift," she says. "Job experience is something employers look for when hiring as well as volunteer work. By creating this program, we combine real work experience with volunteerism."

The Resume Builder Program is a 60-hour program gives students the opportunity to experience different aspects of running a shop. They work with managers and other volunteers in the shipping/receiving department to accept and sort donations. Stocking shelves, creating displays, and keeping the shop tidy are important skills learned. Customer service and working the till - one of Aaron's favourite tasks - are also part of the program. At the end of twelve weeks, participants receive a certificate and a letter of recommendation that they can include with their resume.

The program also has flexibility. Participants can work weekends only or once school is out and more time is available, they can work during the week and complete the program faster. The program is designed for young people aged 14 and up who are looking to gain experience and who want to learn more about MCC and volunteering.

"This really is a win-win program for us," says Reimer. "It provides our MCC Thrift Shops with much-needed volunteers. Students have an opportunity to get experience and find out where their strengths and interests lie. And once the program is done, they're more than welcome to stay and volunteer!"

Aaron has enjoyed his experience so far. He's gotten to know people of all ages who volunteer at the store, has gained confidence in his abilities, and he's learned more about MCC.

"I like working here. The volunteers are friendly, the work is interesting and it feels good to know that I'm also helping a good cause," he says. "I think I'll continue to volunteer here."

The Resume Builder Program is offered at select MCC Thrift Shops: Chilliwack, Abby East, Surrey, Vancouver, Abby Clothing and Furniture and More and Mission. To find out how you can get involved, call Marie Reimer at (604) 850 6639 or toll free at 1 888 622 6337.

For more information about our Thrift Shops or to volunteer, contact the Thrift Shop nearest you or contact our office. For more information on the Thrift Shops please contact the Thrift Shop Coordinator at: (604) 850-6639 in Abbotsford, 857-0011 toll free from Vancouver or 1-888-622-6337 from outside the Lower Mainland. E-mail thrift@mccbc.com