For some time now, every time I have walked by the display window of the Discovery Shop in the…read moreTownside Festival Shopping Center on Franklin Road in Roanoke, Virginia, and I couldn't belive my eyes what I was seeing. Beautiful gifts of all kinds. But in all those times the shop just happened to be closed because they open from 10 to 5 everyday of the week, and I would pass by in the evening, after dining at Montano's, one of my favorite restaurants.
After being awarded the Yelp NC Triad Squad Yelper of the Year 2024 Award at the Yelpies Award Ceremony last year, an event that honored the highest-performing Yelp Elites, celebrating their contributions and accomplishments throughout the year, I decided that this year, as an All-Star Yelp Elite, I not only wanted to be the first to discover new restaurants and businesses, and bring them to the attention of the public, but also to uncover those found in hidden paths that for one reason or another have not reached the public in its totality. And the Discovery Shop of the American Cancer Society, in Roanoke, Virginia, is a perfect example.
Today, as I was headed to dine at Montano's, I decided to go early to finally drop by the Discover Shop and find out more about this place with beautiful items to sell.
Once there, I started walking around, viewing all their unique and quality merchandise at very affordable prices, having no idea that they were all donated items by community members who want to support the mission of the American Cancer Society. I found out about this through a friendly and welcoming lady who worked their as a volunteer and introduced herself to me as I was shopping. Since 1995 this place was opened for the above mentioned purpose, and the proceeds raised from the sale of donated items are used to help fund cancer research and local programs and services.
I was amazed at the entire operation of this shop. It had a warm and welcoming environment. It was very clean and organized. The selection of the donated items was truly exemplary. And both the volunteer staff and customers enjoyed being there. One of the customers I met there that day was the Host of Montano's Restaurant, the place where I was going dining next. She tried on a beautiful red dress that looked marvelous on her, now for the Holiday Season, and some shoes that matched very well.
This Discovery Shop offered items such as clothing, accessories, jewelry, furniture, art, antiques, collectibles, Christmas decorations, and other household goods. To learn more about what they currently have at their store one can visit their Facebook page. Their they can not only see photos of some of their most outstanding items for sale, but also find out whenever they have Sales, such as in the weekend before Black Friday, with up to 50% off in many departments.
They now also have a Discovery Rewards Program with exclusive benefits and ways to earn rewards. For every dollar you spend, you earn one point, and then redeem those points for discounts on your purchases. For example you spend $200, earn 200 points, and that is equivalent to a 20% off discount on your next purchase. Discovery Rewards Members also get $10 off Birthday Bonus on your birthday. And you get early access to select sales and events.
The shop accepts donations of gently used and new men's, women's, children's clothing and accessories, household decor items, dishes, collectibles, books, and smaller furniture items such as tables, chairs, and bookcases. Items must be of high quality.
They also accept volunteers for a variety of meaningful opportunities.
Besides some great deals in purchasing some beautiful quality items, and by donating or volunteering of your time, you will be making a difference and helping save lives.