For the last six months, Seth Horn and Jeanne Inglese have been developing valuable skills at the One Stop Gift Shop in Hicksville.
On Wednesday May 6, during their final week volunteering with the gift shop, they supported a Mother’s Day Pop-Up sale at the agency’s Plainview office.
With Anne Giaramita, Store Manager and Direct Support Professional (DSP), they brought several pieces of merchandise including branded t-shirts, hats, mugs, and gift boxes which were a hit for customers looking for Mother’s Day gifts.
“I like working here,” Seth said. “I like to be busy, like 24 hours a day. It keeps me occupied. It’s like one step and another step and another step, until you figure it out.”
The One Stop Gift Shop is a skill-building initiative of Day Services. The storefront, located at 113 Levittown Parkway in Hicksville, provides interns with practical skills, including money management, inventory management, customer service, and socialization.
Seth is proud of everything he’s learned so far working at the gift shop. He mentioned folding items, going out to stores like Walmart and Dollar Tree with Anne to pick out inventory, and working with customers. He appreciates that there is always something new to learn and that mastering a task means he can take on another challenge.
While Seth who is completing his first volunteer rotation at the gift shop, Jeanne has taken several turns. It’s one of her favorite activities to do as part of Day Services. She appreciates greeting customers, recommending some of her favorite items sold at the gift shop—including jewelry and accessories that sparkle—and taking photos with customers after handing them their smartly wrapped packages.
At the pop-up, the long line of customers kept Seth and Anne busy throughout the morning. Customers were eager to purchase everything from Mother’s Day-themed gift boxes that included an insulated mug, socks, and bag with a thoughtful message and branded agency hoodies, a shop bestseller.
The gift shop is more than a place for people to build skills. It’s also a charitable partner to local community organizations. Every month, the store’s proceeds are donated to local nonprofit organizations to help advance their mission. Recently the shop has provided checks to MOMMAS House, the Long Island Volunteer Center, and Farmingdale State College.
Visit the One Stop Gift Shop online or in store to give a gift with heart and support nonprofits across Long Island.
