TEEN CHALLENGE THRIFT STORE

Project Title:  TEEN CHALLENGE THRIFT STORE

Client name: TEEN CHALLENGE CANADA INC., Head Office for this Canadian charity is London, Ontario. https://www.teenchallenge.ca/what-we-do Teen Challenge Canada operates faith-based residential treatment facilities for women and men struggling with drug or alcohol addiction dependency issues. The 12-month program first began in the 1960's in Toronto and has since expanded to locations across Canada. Teen Challenge helps men and women aged 18+ to overcome addictions by developing the whole person within the context of a residential facility. Students learn character and leadership development skills, health and life skills, and have the opportunity to acquire some vocational training. The Thrift Store generates revenue for funding the mission of Teen Challenge Canada Inc.

The Challenge – I was contracted for six months (April – September, 2020) as an ‘operational’ Business Consultant for the Thrift Store. The Store’s budget was declining after three years in business, and the goal was to assess marketing, sales, staffing, store layout and design, budget review and
strategic planning.

Project Details - Most of my work was done virtually, however, I spent one week in London for an onsite evaluation of the Thrift Store. I interviewed several staff members, reviewed procedures and practices, floor layout, current budget, marketing strategies and staffing requirements. A thorough review was completed and a written report of the deficiencies noted and concrete areas for improvement was provided to the CEO.

Outcomes – Many of my recommendation were implemented. The layout of the Store has greatly improved, customers have increased by 50% and the Store’s revenue and budget has improved overall.

Glen Smeltzer, CEO of Teen Challenge Canada Inc.
Charlene conducted a thorough review of our thrift store retail operation, in London, Ontario, evaluating virtually every aspect of this business unit.  She provided a detailed report including a large number of actionable recommendations.  We greatly appreciated her experience, thoroughness, and practical grasp of our business, and would not hesitate to recommend her to others.