ALBANY, NY (WRGB) — A $30,000 matching grant has been awarded to The Vandy Thrift Shoppe in downtown Albany, providing crucial support for its job training program aimed at at-risk individuals. The thrift store, part of the Vanderheyden job training initiative, offers participants hands-on experience in a supportive environment. JJ, a participant in the program, has been working for over a year, saving up money for college.
“I do a little bit of everything, I take out the trash, help out with donations,” She added, “I do find it a little bit calming because I do like organizing things and I have huge OCD when it comes to that stuff.”
Vanderheyden CEO Karen Carpenter emphasized the program’s impact.
“Let’s make sure they can have a living wage, let’s make sure that they too can afford an apartment someday and live on their own,” she said.
Carpenter noted that 100% of the thrift store’s proceeds support Vanderheyden’s programs and services. The grant will cover two years’ rent, ensuring the store can continue preparing at-risk individuals for future employment.
“Over the last 5 years, we’ve employed at least 30 individuals, you know, because people grow and learn and go onto other jobs, thankfully. So, that will continue.” Carpenter said.
The grant was provided by the Business for Good Foundation (BFGF), with matching donations from Pioneer, Stewart’s Shops, Broadview and M&T Bank. BFGF Executive Director Marie Masterson expressed a desire to distribute more matching grants in the Capital Region.
“We really relaunched this year, and what we’re really looking for more than anything else is partnership,” Masterson said.
The next grant application window opens Jan. 5 and is available to nonprofits, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.
