PRESS RELEASE August 15, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Gertz Looze | Phone: 231.582.1186
Challenge Mountain Resale Store has experienced a 25% jump in sales since the grand opening in June 2016 at the new location, 1100 Boyne Avenue, next to McDonald’s.
“Sales have exceeded our budget goals by 17% in the first seven months of 2017,” according to Challenge Mountain Board President Bill Aten. “The success of the Challenge Mountain Resale Store means we have 30% more in funds available to support adaptive recreational programming and to pay down debt on the new building.”
As a result of this success, more individuals living with disabilities and their families will be connected with life-enhancing recreational opportunities like adaptive skiing, biking, sailing, kayaking, equine therapy and ropes challenge course activities. “At Challenge Mountain, we believe that all people, regardless of ability, should have opportunities to experience recreation and leisure, and in doing so realize their personal value, strengths and abilities,” Aten said.
Store Manager Staci Payton and her dedicated crew of summer staff and volunteers have been working hard to get new merchandise on the floor and out the door every day. “This has been an amazing summer for us at the new location,” according to Staci. “June was a record-breaking month with $30,900 in sales, only to be outdone in July with sales topping $34,900.”
The opening of the new Resale Store was made possible by generous contributions from private foundations, local community foundations, local businesses and individuals. “Challenge Mountain is so grateful to donors who saw the long-term impact of investing in the Resale Store Renovation project,” said Elizabeth Gertz Looze, CM Executive Director. “Thank you to everyone who lent a hand or made a contribution. Every contribution made a difference. This project would not have been possible without the support of our community.”
The Challenge Mountain Resale Store is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm. Donations of household items, furniture, clothing, sports equipment, books, DVDs, videos and much more are accepted during business hours. Pick-up of large furniture/estates is available by calling 231-582-6696.
Challenge Mountain was established in 1984 as a non-profit organization and it continues to enrich lives and empower individuals living with disabilities through year-round adaptive recreation. To learn more about Challenge Mountain or to get involved, contact Executive Director, Elizabeth Gertz Looze at director@challengemtn.org or call 231-582-1186.