Written by Morgan Lanser, corporate storyteller
When you walk into Share & Care, you might think you are walking into any other thrift store. But Share & Care is different. Fully “staffed” by resident volunteers, all proceeds from the shop benefit the benevolent fund, which provides care for residents who, for reasons outside of their control, can no longer pay for their daily expenses. When you walk into Share & Care, you enter a room full of memories. The shop is filled with household items – kitchen utensils, appliances, lamps, curtains, picture frames, even furniture. All of which have been donated by fellow residents and team members. If you can dream it, Share & Care probably has it. Or did. The good stuff goes quick!
When I started working at GSV as a 16-year-old at her first job, I had no idea how meaningful relationships with residents would become. 15 years later, GSV is a second home to me, and residents are like family. Over the years, I became very close with one couple. John and Nancy Dolan. They were kind, funny, and genuinely cared about everyone they interacted with. They remembered the names of my dogs, would ask about my family, and even became good friends with my mom!
Share & Care has become a frequent pit stop for me on the way to a meeting or a post-lunch walk. I have found countless treasured items over the years. They fill my home and office alike. A few years ago, I was looking for new lamps. EJ Rittersbach, Lead Volunteer & Coordinator of Share & Care, happened to be in the shop one day when I stopped in. I inquired about new lamps, and she knew just what I needed.
The shop had just received a donation of two beautiful vintage Chinoiserie lamps with hand sculpted cherry blossoms on the bases and pleated scalloped shades with decorative cutouts. I was instantly sold! As I was ringing them up, she mentioned they were donated by the Dolans. I was so excited and couldn’t wait to tell them I now own their lamps! We had a good chuckle when I told them how excited I was. They shared how glad they were to know the lamps would be in loving hands.
John and Nancy both passed away last year. Nancy in August of 2025, followed shortly by John in September. I miss them both dearly but can’t help smiling at the thought of the laughter, love, and joy at their heavenly reunion.
A few weeks after John’s passing, I found myself in Share & Care again. This time – two beautiful end tables were on display. Imagine my surprise when EJ once again told me they had belonged to the Dolans. My mouth dropped open, I had all the goosebumps possible, and tears welled in my eyes as I realized how special this was! I now have the lamps and end tables in my home, reminding me of the memories we shared every day with the simple twist of a light switch.
Share & Care is a thrift store, sure. But the connections, memories, and positive lasting impact it has on patrons and the residents makes it so much more.
Find more information about Share & Care here | Share & Care Thrift Store | Garden Spot Village
Morgan Lanser, corporate storyteller & project manager for Garden Spot Communities has built her career at GSC — starting in dining services as a student. She brings cross-departmental knowledge and experience, focusing on communication across all communities.