This is my third placement of TY work experience, and I have to say, it is absolutely wonderful after just one day.
I really wanted to secure my last place with S.V.P for the simple reason that it meant I could get some experience in the retail industry, whilst also getting to give back to my local community. S.V.P Celbridge is a totally non-profit shop, where all of those who work there are working there on a voluntary basis. The shop itself serves the entire community, and sells clothes, accessories, shoes, bric-a-brac, books, CDs and DVDs, and even toys and some home wares. I had always been someone who loved to pop in and see if I could find some really nice things for a really amazing low price, and by doing this, I was not only getting myself a great deal, but I was also helping people. I personally have bought I'd say 7 items of clothing from there and they are all in great condition as the shop doesn't put things out that are not fit for sale.
I was actually part of the process of deciding whether the items donated were fit for sale, and what price they should be sold at. I got to rotate the stock, and tag the clothing as well as putting them on the racks to be displayed. I sorted through all of the donated items which was really interesting actually. The people there are the most friendly, helpful, sweet people I have ever come across. They treat you like one of the S.V.P family, like I had been working with them for years, and I really appreciated that as I was a little nervous not knowing anyone at first.
They are all such hard working people, who dedicate their time to working, voluntarily, to run this shop that not only provides great finds at low prices, but that is a charity that helps thousands of people each year. All the customers are regulars by now, and everyone seems to know everyone and I love that whole atmosphere. If you never shop in charity shops for whatever reason, please give them a chance, they are doing such great things for our community, helping so many people, and you can find some really fantastic things for incredible prices too.
Please support your own local St. Vincent De Paul, it is really appreciated, and the people behind these shops are just simply wonderful people.
