SALEM - Ask any bargain shopper what motivates him or her to seek out used and low-cost items, and the answer usually combines several factors. The “thrill of the hunt,” the need to find quality clothing and household goods at affordable prices, the desire to recycle more goods to keep fabrics and other materials out of the waste system: these drive shoppers to places like The Shoppe Off Broadway on the campus of the Historic Salem Courthouse. For locals, the Shoppe serves as an informal social gathering place and connects shoppers with the all-volunteer staff, most of whom were professionals in the field of education. Many shoppers, the volunteers remark, are regulars each week who check up on the latest inventory, seeking bargains in clothing, arts and crafts, jewelry, small household items, and seasonal decorations. But the Shoppe serves a larger, community-centered purpose.

“Working together our community, the Courthouse, and The Shoppe Off Broadway support activities that enrich the lives of our children-- Activities where learning, connection, and support thrive.  I am so pleased to have the opportunity to be a volunteer at the Shoppe Off Broadway,” remarks volunteer Ann Dunnigan, who also is the Chair of the Salem School Board.  She notes that individuals or programs can apply to the Shoppe for funds when they have particular youth-driven needs:

“When the Grant Program began, it was designed to support activities and opportunities that provided for active participation of students.  Especially opportunities, activities, and experiences that might not otherwise be available without this financial support.  Through the COVID years we also considered requests that delivered a specific benefit to the students.