Ruth Gilb, president of the board of directors of the Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop, says the store is a vital part of the community. Not only is it a retail store, it is a social service facility that provides assistance to people with financial, family, and personal problems.
The Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop serves a dual purpose: a non-profit department store with thrift shop prices and as a local welfare agency for those in need. The article discusses the types of assistance given. All programs are funded by sales from the thrift shop.
Arcadia has unique welfare facility that doesn't cost taxpayers even one penny. Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop provides emergency and temporary welfare throughout Arcadia Unified School District. Program financed by sale at shop of donated clothing, furniture, books, tableware and even automobiles.
Nanci Lee Stewart, experienced in merchandising, has been appointed the new manager of the Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop, succeeding Dorothy Smith, who is retiring after 10 1/2 years as manager.
Arcadia Welfare and Thrift celebrates 80 years with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Pictured are Arcadia Mayor Robert Harbicht, Arcadia Welfare and Thrift President Terry Totten, and a large group of supporters and friends. The store has helped the less fortunate, particularly the homeless.
The Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop is beginning its 51st year. Thrift shop manager Dorothy Smith tells of the changes and growth since its opening during the depression, and describes the types of merchandise to be found in the "non-profit department store with thrift shop prices."
Dorothy Cowan Smith, for 30 years active in Arcadia business community, has retired as manager of the Arcadia Welfare and Thrift Shop, with which she has been affiliated for more than 18 years.
Dr. Richard Cordano, Principal of Arcadia High School, has announced that he will take an early retirement effective June 30, 1985. Cordano first came to Arcadia High in 1964 from John Muir High School in Pasadena.
Former Mayor Charles Gilb and Ruth Gilb will donate $300,000 to build a new historical museum. The historical society will contribute an additional $100,000.
In additon to the $300,000 donated by Ruth and Charles Gilb, another $85,000 has been contributed from the community for the new Arcadia Historical Museum.
Former Mayor Charles Gilb and his wife Ruth, through their family foundation, are donating $300,000 to construct a new museum. Curator Carol Libby displays museum artifacts on the community's history in the current museum.
An exhibit at the Ruth and Charles Gilb Arcadia Historical Museum showcases the Seabiscuit memorabilia collection of Lisa Ramaci, other private collectors, and the Museum's collection.