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Shop for a good cause in Hinsdale
Marna Slawson, development manager of the Wellness House, stands among the merchandise for sale in The Courtyard, a Hinsdale consignment shop that benefits the Wellness House's cancer support services.
Updated: December 30, 2012 6:15AM
HINSDALE — Marna Slawson is manager of development for Wellness House in Hinsdale, which provides support services to people with cancer and their families. Slawson also is liaison to The Courtyard, a consignment shop, at 63 Village Place, that resells furniture and home accessories to benefit the Wellness House.
Q. How does The Courtyard operate?
A. There are about 70 volunteers who run the shop. Ninety-plus percent of what we sell is consignment. We specialize in high-end items.
Overall, we sell 85 to 90 percent of what we get. Our volunteers are our best customers.
Q. What percentage of the sales goes to Wellness House?
A. The consignor gets 50 percent and the Wellness House gets 50 percent. (The store marks down its merchandise every month that it does not sell). We probably sell 70 to 75 percent (of the donated goods) in the first 60 days. After 90 days, they can either take back their item or donate it. It’s their preference what they want to do. If they leave it here, we will mark it way down.
Q. Do you like your job?
A. I have the best job in the world, I work with 70 wonderful volunteers and my work helps the Wellness House. It’s a triple win. The consignor makes some money, the customers get a great piece, and the Wellness House benefits.
Q. What was the first item you bought at The Courtyard?
A. A glass and brass sofa table.
Q. Do you still have it?
A. Oh yes.
Q. How did you become aware of the Wellness House?
A. I used to work for them as director of administration. And I used the Wellness House services. My husband and I both did. It was really important for him. I had cancer, but their services help both you and the rest of the family. Sometimes they get lost in the shuffle. They are going through it with you, but they don’t realize it.
Q. What services did you use?
A. Support groups, self-hypnosis and some Tai Chi.
