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Community Corner

A Cup of Coffee With Donna Dooley

The Westfield resident wears many hats as a thrift store volunteer.

For Westfield resident Donna Dooley volunteering at has been a way for her to give back to a cause that is close to her heart.

The mother of three, who works as a scientist for L'Oreal USA in Clark, began donating her time to the Prospect Street thrift store more than a decade ago.

The shop raises funds for The Center for Hope Hospice & Palliative Care in Scotch Plains. After her grandmother received hospice care, the volunteer learned how invaluable the service is to terminally-ill patients and their families.

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In a given week, Dooley manages the accounts as the store’s treasurer, helps on Saturdays by accepting donations, arranges displays, and supports continued fundraising efforts.

"I think the most satisfying part of volunteering at The Hope Chest is all of the amazing people I have met over the years," Dooley said. "Not only have I had the pleasure of working at the store with some of the most passionate and dedicated volunteers ever, but also the people who donate to the store and our loyal customers are pretty special, too."

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The Hope Chest is operated and managed by the Center for Hope’s Women’s Auxiliary volunteers and provides an opportunity for people to shop for quality merchandise while being educated about hospice services. Proceeds from the store help to subsidize hospice care for patients who are unable to meet expenses through Medicare and Medicaid or other funding sources.

“The mission of The Hope Chest is important for many reasons. The items that are donated are frequently given by families who are served by Center for Hope.  The store helps families to feel supported and they want to be a part of the total mission,” said Dooley, who encourages members of the community to join the auxiliary and become involved.

“Donna Dooley has been a member of Center for Hope's Hospice Auxiliary from the beginning," said Hope Chest manager Helga Thomas. "She will be serving as the treasurer for the next two years. In the past, Donna has been responsible for the popular wine tasting held in the spring and also was co-manager of the Hope Chest for several years. She has modeled in our annual Fashion Show and volunteers at The Hope Chest whenever her busy life allows. Donna is an exemplary member of our organization and never says 'no' when asked to serve."

Dooley said the operation is a team effort and all the volunteers are very committed to making the shop the best it can be.

With the holiday season in full swing, Dooley invites shoppers to stop in and view the wide variety of items, many of which are brand new. For those looking to make a donation, the shop accepts new and gently-worn, clean clothing for men, women and children, as well as toys, books and household items. Donations, which are tax-deductible, are accepted on Tuesdays and Saturdays.  

*Note: Dooley said she takes her coffee with cream, no sugar. While she enjoys all the coffee places in Westfield, she said, There is something special about the coffee at the and ."

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