Prayers answered: Nonprofit celebrates Grand Opening!

Cross Border Partners Thrift Store celebrated their grand opening Saturday at their new location at 929 North Coliseum Boulevard.

The celebration was more than year in the making. Positively Fort Wayne featured the non-profit Christian organization in a two-part special report last summer when they were desperately in need of a new building after outgrowing their old location on Newaygo Drive.

The uncertainly of the past year created tense days for the dedicated volunteers who have kept the operation running for over 20 years.

“This is our little corner of the world,” says Bill Graney, a self-described worker-bee volunteer. “It was really tough finding a new building, but when we got the green light to go, it was full speed ahead.”

The new location is located next to Graber Roofing & Gutters, which owns the building.

Graney says they initially rented about 4,000 square feet of warehouse space to store some of their largest items. Eventually, a deal was worked out to take over the full building to house their warehouse and thrift store under one roof.

“What a relief,” sighed Hank Kiess, President of Cross Border Partners as he looked back on the process. “We have to thank Ben Graber and his group for what they have done for us.”

Graney gets emotional when talking about the grand opening. “It means everything,” he says. “It’s a culmination of a dream we’ve had for over a year.”

“It means a lot to us,” says Kiess. “Because the people of Fort Wayne have backed us 100%.”

“We’re a lot more accessible now,” says volunteer Elaine Ahrens. “We’re closer to the highway, people can see us, and there’s room to park. We didn’t have adequate parking at the old place.”

“We have easy access to the front door,” says Kiess. “Everything is just easier.”

Graney says the added space is a major benefit for shoppers and the volunteers. “We were all jammed in together,” he says. “This allows us to breathe. It allows our customers and clients to see the merchandise easier.”

Graney says the furniture section in three times the size it used to be, and having the warehouse under the same roof is a huge plus.

“The warehouse means more stuff. More stuff means more income. More income means helping more people. It’s a domino effect.”

Ahrens never loses sight of the people they’re helping. Clients are referred to Cross Border Partners by local churches or service agencies. They shop free of charge, once a month, for a year. The program is meant to get the families on their feet and set them up for long term success.

“When they come to us and they have small children,” she says. “You know they need a bed for them to sleep in. They need a couch for their family to sit on, and they need a table to eat their dinners at. We try to help them with all that.”

The dedicated volunteers are at the heart of it all.

“It’s run like a business, but it’s not a business,” says Kiess. “It’s friendship, and that’s what makes the difference.”

“I love the older people here,” says volunteer Thelma Stitt. “They keep me going. It just feels so good to work with them.”

“We’re the kids,” says Tim Brehm with a laugh to Amy Beck. “We’re in our 70’s!”

“We have five people in their 90’s, and several in their 80’s,” says Beck. “They’re just a wonderful group of people.”

Brehm and Beck marvel at the dedication shown by the older volunteers. “It’s amazing what they do each day,” says Brehm. “They outwork me,” adds Beck.”

“They come in when it’s this hot,” says Brehm. “And they come in when it’s freezing cold,” chimes in Beck. “And, they’re never late!”

“My husband Bob turned 94 today,” says volunteer Lillian Bieberich, who turned 94 herself the next month. “We’re here with friends hoping to do some good for other people.”

“It just makes you feel good,” says the birthday-boy Bob with a smile. “It keeps you active. You can’t just sit in a chair all day and do nothing.”

It’s that kind of infectious spirit that filters through the building.

“It’s a good feeling,” says Lillian. “Like we have done what God has planned for us to do.”

Cross Border Partners is located in Eastland Plaza at 929 North Coliseum Boulevard in Fort Wayne. The Thrift Store is open to clients and the general public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For volunteer opportunities, or to donate items, call (260)484-8580.

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