Thrifty Shoppers Find Deals, Steals and Good Feels

By Lin Sue Flood
Photos courtesy Hospice of the Valley

National Thrift Shop Day is Aug. 17, but any bargain hunter will tell you: EVERY day is a good day to snap up a deal. Some of the best steals in town can be found at The White Dove Thrift Shoppes in Phoenix, Glendale, Scottsdale and Mesa, which were just voted “Best Boutique Thrifting” by Phoenix Magazine readers. All four locations boast a huge selection of one-of-a-kind merchandise — from collectible books and art; eclectic housewares and all styles of furniture; to jewelry and fashion, both vintage and trendy.

“I always spot something marvelous,” says Pat Latham, who considers herself an experienced thrifter. “And prices here are the best. Look at this really unique platter… isn’t it beautiful?” She flashes a colorful iridescent flower-shaped tray and confesses, “Yeah, I’m pretty sure there’s more stuff here that I simply must take home!”

Many shoppers intentionally patronize the White Dove stores because proceeds support Hospice of the Valley patients and families in need. As the only nonprofit hospice in Maricopa County, the agency cares for all, regardless of financial circumstances. Last year, the stores contributed $2.5 million to help ensure no one is turned away. That’s quite an amazing feat, given some items are sold for just a dollar. The stores also have a dedicated volunteer force waiting on customers, creating displays and handling donations that are deeply meaningful to families.

“We are giving back because we’re grateful for the care my father received,” says shopper Peter Eickelberg. “Hospice of the Valley did such a great job — they even had a volunteer come to play catch with my dad when he was still feeling pretty good.”

Wendy Gilbert remembers taking her father to the White Dove before he received hospice care. “It was like a treasure hunt. He was so excited because it was a trip down memory lane for him, finding things from his era. We found it interesting to see what people had collected in their lives.”

It’s fun to speculate about these fascinating treasures. Who used to own the life-size cutout of Hollywood starlet Marilyn Monroe? Who painted the giant fox who looks so real it could dash away? Who donated the heavy metal goblets that bear an inscription from Susie? Did someone actually wear the hand carved wooden clogs?

“Everything has a story,” says White Dove volunteer Janet Barkley, who has waited on customers at the Scottsdale store for the last two years. “Some of the items are so precious. It makes me wonder, was this a gift? Was it bought for a special occasion? I think about the life of that object continuing on. And continuing on with love — because don’t we all buy things we love?”

So rest assured, whether it’s some rockin’ platform sandals, a pristine collection of Jade-ite cups and saucers, a gilded gold tea service, highly sought-after Tommy Bahama glassware or those perfect palm tree-embossed dessert plates you’ve been looking for — there’s something for everyone… and it only gets better when you glance at the price tag.

In honor of National Thrift Shop Day, all four White Dove locations will be offering a 50% discount storewide on Saturday, Aug. 16 (some exclusions apply). And every week, there are sales and promotions to entice shoppers, including a Summer Discount Savings Passport, 25% off every Monday for seniors 55 and older and 25% off every Saturday for teachers, students, first responders and military personnel.

Thank you for shopping, donating and volunteering at The White Dove Thrift Shoppes. For more information, visit WhiteDoveThrift.org.