Meet Chris, HFHV ReStore volunteer

Chris has been volunteering her time at our ReStore Kilsyth South for the past five years. With a background in visual merchandising and a passion for HFHV’s mission, Chris has had a really positive impact on the look and feel of our ReStore in recent months.

We sat down with Chris to find out more about why she volunteers her skills, time and energy. 

Can you describe what your focus has been recent months in terms of how you have been using your skills to help refresh and transform ReStore Kilsyth South? Letting the sunshine in! Previously we had large cabinets along our store windows, not only did this look awful from the outside but blocked the sun making the store dark. We now only have low items and the difference is amazing. Changing displays in the window and on the floor fortnightly keeps customers interested.

There is always something new to see, touch and purchase. 

What are some of the key outcomes of this store refresh project so far? Amazing feedback from customers. Taking the opportunity of try new things - moving departments around, cleaning out old unsold stock, looking with fresh eyes and envisaging new setups.

Are there any further changes on the horizon that you’re able to share? There will always be changes happening in ReStore Kilsyth South. We are currently undergoing a refresh... Seeing these small changes and how each improves the store is brilliant.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering? Helping a customer find an item - their excitement is contagious, it’s like going on a treasure hunt within the store. Having customers come into the store for the first time, amazed at the variety and quality of our items. Sharing stories about our cause.

“Knowing I’m helping not just our customers, but [also] helping families move into their own home is wonderful.

Some families have members with special needs and we can tailor homes to meet these needs - giving families a great boost in confidence for their future.

Everyone is contributing, everyone is winning.”

Chris, ReStore volunteer