The Best of Neighbors

Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: July 2024 | Photograph By: Susan Renfro

It’s hard to describe the phenomenon that is Mountain Findings (but I’ll try, since Marjorie and Janet pay me to do things like this!) the 501(c)(3) community thrift store that has been an integral part of our community for 57 years!

Operated entirely by volunteers whose numbers are pushing 80 this year and stocked solely with items given by generous donors and community collaborators, Mountain Findings has provided over $5.5 million in grants to area charities and non-profits that enrich the lives and improve the circumstances of so many in our community and to student scholarships for Highlands High School seniors who attend higher learning institutions, community colleges, or trade programs.

Mountain Findings embodies the best of neighbors helping neighbors, and their success is a testament to what can be accomplished with giving hearts and a joyful countenance. In addition to all those dedicated volunteers and generous donors, joy just might just be the secret sauce of what makes this place run so successfully and efficiently.

The volunteers have formed an almost family-like bond happily doing the often back-breaking work of keeping the showrooms organized and merchandise moving. Listen closely and you might just hear them whistling while they work. At the very least you’ll hear laughter.

Mountain Findings is a destination within itself. Shoppers love the place so much that many come by each week as much to visit as to see what’s new. One even brings the volunteers baked goods each week.
They have committed themselves to providing an unparalleled thrift shopping experience offering an assortment of housewares, gently used furnishings, rugs, lighting, artwork, linens, glassware, silver, pottery, and more, so much more.

Many items are vintage or antique and while priced below value they are priced according to a percentage of the going market price. For those looking for such upscale pieces, you’ll likely find them here, but you can also find items to fit any budget. Thrifting and repurposing pieces is a thrilling experience and Mountain Findings successfully strives to make it accessible to all. There are items at every price point here.

Anyone wishing to donate can drop off items 7 days a week by pulling to the rear of the building but please be mindful to leave only gently used items and no appliances, paints, batteries, electronics, building materials, or mattresses. They will also happily arrange pickup for those who have numerous or large items to donate. You’ll have to arrange delivery of large items you purchase but they will happily provide you with the names of individuals who can help.

Mountain Findings is located at 452 Spruce Street and is open from 10:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. Thursday through Saturday, through October, and every other weekend during the off-season months.

For more information, keep an eye on their Facebook page, call them at (828) 526-9929, or visit mountainfindings.org.