By Kevin J. Sabo
For the Bashaw Star
Like many other organizations that have had to adapt due to the pandemic, so has the Bashaw and District Thrift Store Society.
Normally running an Annual General Meeting (AGM) around now, due to the ongoing restrictions the society is not holding an in-person meeting at this time. Instead, society members can pick up a package of issues to vote on and return a paper ballot to a sealed box located in the Main Street store.
“We’re doing (the voting) as a paper vote,” said Margaret Baier, board chair for the society. “There’s a box at the store for people to place their votes.”
While board officers would normally come up for election, due to the election and the lack of an in-person meeting, the decision has been made keep everyone in their position for the year, then hold elections when the group can meet again.
“When everyone gets vaccinated, we’ll have a board meeting,” said Baier.
Items that are being voted on in 2021 include the distribution of any profits, if any, for 2020. As a non-profit society, any profits raised over what is needed for operational costs by the store get donated to various Bashaw organizations, such as the school and the volunteer fire department, though other local charities have received funds in the past as well.
In addition to donating back to community organizations, the society also works with Bashaw and District Support Services, ensuring that community needs are met.
In the fall, a coat drive is held for school kids, and families in need of immediate assistance, such as in the case of a house fire, can also access the store at no-charge.
“Our volunteers are very good at being very generous,” said Baier.
“Our volunteers are very dedicated and hardworking, and much-appreciated.”
Ballots can be picked up until March 25 and must be deposited in the box by 4 p.m. on March 26.
The Main Street storefront of the society is open Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.