Green Olive Tree Snippets

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Nancy Virginia Bain (second from right) at the ribbon cutting for The Green Olive Tree’s current location in 2011. Photo: Mike Marshall.

By Shelia Freeman

Despite the impressive construction project right next to us on Three Notch’d Road, The Green Olive Tree continues to thrive. We are excited about our growth and mission: “Giving to others through Christ.” The Tree gains new friends daily.

Yes, we have recently lost several valuable volunteers. All of the community feels the void left when our dear Nancy Virginia Bain passed away last spring. She was one of our “founding mothers.” We will always miss her warmth and smile. Her presence was a blessing. Thankfully, June Andrews, our longest serving volunteer and “founding mother,” is with us.

Two other valued workers moved from our area because of family relocations: Monica Viera and Carol Marshall are greatly missed. However, in true Olive Tree fashion, we have been blessed with several new and committed volunteers.

Our ability to aid Christian and community causes has expanded. We encourage our Crozet costumers and friends to visit and view the expanded list of groups that benefit from our bounty and sales. As a section 501(c)(3) organization we are an open book. We do not really “brag” about what we are able to give, but we are more than a friendly store filled with terrific bargains.

Equipping the Saints in Weyers Cave (visited by several of our volunteers on a recent field trip) is one recipient of our excess clothes and monetary donations. Our visiting volunteers were amazed at the scope and spirit of their work, ranging from hurricane relief to supplying Christina literature to prisoners.

The Vietnam Vets Store in Richmond makes weekly pick-ups of excess housewares. When individual families have emergencies and are in need, we honor referrals from churches and community groups. The Green Olive Tree has established a number of scholarships for Western Albemarle High School students.

Of course, challenges continue. We are appreciative to all who donate. We strongly urge that donations be dropped off during store hours so they can be properly accepted and processed.

Bag Sale is traditionally featured on the third full week of the month. The sale price has been raised to $10, tax included. This is a jump from our former price of $8 plus tax. Most costumers understand and realize the tremendous value they are receiving, as well as enhancing our ability to help others.

Our hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. We would like to expand our afternoon hours. Perhaps we can do this when more volunteers appear.

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