The West Seattle American Cancer Society Discovery Shop, located at 4535 California Ave SW, is marking a significant milestone, celebrating its 35th anniversary as a local thrift boutique dedicated to the mission of ending cancer. To celebrate three and a half decades of community support, the shop is hosting a special anniversary sale on Friday, November 14th and Saturday, November 15th, from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.

The Discovery Shop is not just a place to find unique items; it is a vital contributor to the American Cancer Society's vision. The shop’s beginnings were entirely volunteer-driven. When asked about the store’s origins, Patricia Bolton shared: “The Discovery Shop of the American Cancer Society opened the shop with all volunteers”. Throughout its history, the store has remained firmly rooted in the community, as Bolton confirms: “The Shop has always been in the same location”.

A Treasure Trove of the Unusual

Over 35 years, the Discovery Shop has seen a remarkable turnover of unique inventory, much of which is donated by generous community members. The shop staff must frequently turn to technology to identify rare finds. According to Bolton: “We have a vintage event twice a year and we get some things that we definitely have to google to figure out what they are”.

The operations rely heavily on the dedicated service of numerous community members. Bolton notes that the store is primarily run by volunteers: “We have around 35 volunteers, one manager and a part time sales associate”.

Driven by Mission and Meaning

Beyond selling items, the Discovery Shop serves as a tangible link between the local community and the American Cancer Society’s mission. This connection often translates into meaningful encounters and dedicated service.

For Manager Patricia Bolton, the commitment to the shop is deeply personal, sharing that “my mom had cancer”. This personal connection reinforces her commitment to the mission, which touches the lives of everyone who enters the shop: “It's every day. It's either the volunteers or new customers coming in talking about somebody they lost or they are sick”.

Bolton explained that working at the Discovery Shop means "I'm making a difference". She concluded, “It means a lot to me to make it a fun place where volunteers can come and meet new people, socialize, and know that they're making a difference every day”.

The shop's ability to last for 35 years is rooted in the community's sense of ownership. Bolton believes the longevity is because “we're so important to the community that people actually treasure us when they know about us”. This appreciation is reflected in donation choices, as donors prefer to bring “their treasures here” rather than other outlets. Customers often state that they don't want to give their items away to other places, but want the items to go to somebody who “will appreciate it and take care of it”.

The staff ensures the shop fulfills its larger mission, confirming: “We are a source of information for the American Cancer Society”.

Patricia Bolton emphasized the profound gratitude expressed by patrons: “We have customers come in all the time to thank us for volunteering for they have been affected by cancer, or a loved one has”. The loyalty extends to those making donations, ensuring that their loved ones’ items directly support the cause. Bolton explains: “When we receive donations, our customers often say their loved ones only wanted their things to come to the Discovery Shop”. This mission also draws dedicated workers, as Bolton highlights: “Our amazing and loyal volunteers often join our team to help support the American Cancer Society mission”.

For customers who wish to make direct cash donations while shopping, the process is simple. Bolton notes that cash contributions are accepted: “We accept donations through our register when a customer charges their purchase”. Additionally, cash donations can be made online, as the American Cancer Society accepts donations at donate.cancer.org.

Celebrating the Anniversary

During the two-day 35th Anniversary Sale, shoppers can enjoy 25% off the entire store. Furthermore, in a special gesture of support for survivors, the shop is giving away free NEW Victoria Secret mastectomy bras to any interested breast cancer survivors, with a limit of one per customer while supplies last.

As the Discovery Shop celebrates its longevity, it remains a clear example that "It matters where you shop!"

For cancer information, support, and resources, call the American Cancer Society 24/7 at 800-227-2345