The Story of Theirlooms.

Theirlooms

After years of setting precedence in the community, and raising awareness and standards for the involvement and employment of individuals with disabilities, The Arc of Calhoun County has decided to take another step toward making those goals a reality. Theirlooms is a social enterprise program of The Arc of Calhoun County, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that has been in Battle Creek for over 66 years. The shop was birthed in order to expand the reach of our mission, to ensure that people with developmental disabilities are valued and respected in order that they and their families can participate fully in and contribute to their community, by way of a retail space that sets a precedence for hiring individuals with disabilities. These individuals will be working alongside others who do not have disabilities, and given the opportunity to earn competitive wages and become tax payers. We have hired a Project Manager with a history of refurbishing and repurposing furniture for resale, who also has a strong connection with Battle Creek and the downtown area, as well as a passion for our mission.

The BC Cargo space will be home to our retail space, where the Project Manager and employees will work on projects to resell and even hold some live how-to events. Items for sale will range from small furniture items such as side tables and chairs, to large items such as dressers and buffets; also unique furniture and décor that has been re-imagined for a new purpose or presentation. Theirlooms will also contract with other creative community members to sell their items on consignment. Customers will find value in Theirlooms as a social enterprise with a meaningful purpose and mission, enjoy the atmosphere of a diverse and beautiful downtown, and feel good about buying a product that is recycled.

As the program grows, proceeds from the products sold at Theirlooms will go toward other programs within The Arc of Calhoun County that provides advocacy and services at no cost. We want to provide unique and quality furniture to buyers; furniture with a past and a purpose.

The Theirlooms Talent

Ideas became our words. Words became our actions. Actions changed our lives.

Daneil Johnston

Office Manager, The Arc of Calhoun County