Uniontown thrift store volunteer a familiar face
Having over 400 volunteers to help with the many programs and events, St. Vincent de Paul of Uniontown executive director Roy Sarver knows that he is blessed.
“Obviously not every one comes here every day,” Sarver laughed. “We have different people who come for different things or even volunteer just for fundraising events or other special projects.”
Although all of the volunteers in the organization are important to the running of the facilities and its many facets, people who shop at the group's Thrift Store on Tuesdays may recognize one familiar face who has greeted visitors and volunteered for more than 20 years.
Marie Suchevits, 93, of Uniontown has been a weekly fixture at the store since the very beginning.
“I actually came here the second day that they were open,” Suchevits said of the Thrift Store that has been operating since 1991. “I've been volunteering ever since.”
Suchevits began volunteering after retiring from Shop 'n Save.
“I wanted something to do,” Suchevits said. “I came here, and I really liked the people.”
Over the 23 years that Suchevits has volunteered at the store, she has operated the cash register, helped at the checkout counter, bagged and did anything else that was asked of her.
“She really is a treasure,” Sarver said. “I think it's amazing that she still comes week after week. She is always cheerful, and there is just something very peaceful about her. Peace radiates from Marie.”
Suchevits drove herself to the store until a few years ago and now takes the bus from her Uniontown home.
“I really don't miss very often, and when I do, it upsets me,” Suchevits said. “I enjoy coming here, and I like to know that I am doing something that is worthwhile.”
“People know her when they come in,” supervisor Eileen McCay said. “She's a Tuesday regular.”
Sarver said that the dedication of Suchevits and others like her are what has not only kept the organization going but has also helped it to grow over the years.
He added that they have many volunteers who are elderly or older than 80.
“We have so many volunteers that do so many things for us, and we could always use more,” Sarver said. “We have different areas and programs, and we are fortunate to have so many people who want to do something to give back to their community.”
There are volunteer opportunities for anyone of any age who would like to donate some time to the organization.
For information, call 724-439-4908.
Marilyn Forbes is a contributing writer for Trib Total Media.
