Kiwanis Marketplace Volunteers Contribute More than 32,000 Hours to Support Local Children and Community

As seasonal residents return to the Desert Foothills, Kiwanis Marketplace celebrates the volunteers, donors and shoppers who turn everyday generosity into extraordinary community impact.

As Thanksgiving approaches and seasonal residents return to the Desert Foothills, Kiwanis Marketplace is celebrating the power of giving and the remarkable volunteers who help make its mission possible. With 32,312 volunteer hours contributed, these dedicated individuals are doing far more than sorting donations, stocking shelves and assisting shoppers. They are helping turn donated treasures into meaningful support for local children, schools and nonprofit organizations.

Those volunteer hours represent an estimated $516,992 in staffing value, based on a conservative rate of $16 per hour. By generously donating their time, Marketplace volunteers help minimize operating expenses, allowing more of the proceeds from sales to be reinvested in the community through the Kiwanis Club of Carefree.

“Every hour our volunteers give is a gift to the community,” said Alex Perez, General Manager. “Their generosity allows us to do so much more for local children and organizations. When you consider the thousands of hours they contribute, you begin to understand just how important volunteers are to everything we accomplish.”

Giving Comes in Many Forms

At Kiwanis Marketplace, giving isn’t limited to writing a check. It happens every day through the generosity of volunteers, donors and shoppers who share a commitment to making the Desert Foothills community a better place.

Volunteers give their time. From accepting and processing donations to organizing merchandise, helping customers and keeping the Marketplace running smoothly, volunteers are the heart of the operation. Their dedication helps maximize the funds available to support community programs.

Donors give their gently used treasures. Furniture, clothing, household goods, home décor and other donated items find new homes while generating revenue for programs that benefit local children and organizations. For seasonal residents returning to the Valley, or anyone refreshing their home or clearing out closets, donating to Kiwanis Marketplace is a simple way to make a lasting difference.

Shoppers give back with every purchase. Whether discovering a unique piece of furniture, finding a favorite book or picking up an unexpected treasure, customers can feel good knowing their purchases help support important causes right here in their own community.

Turning Generosity Into Community Impact

Operated in support of the Kiwanis Club of Carefree, Kiwanis Marketplace plays a vital role in funding grants, scholarships and charitable initiatives throughout the Desert Foothills. The Club has returned more than $12 million to the community over the years, supporting education, youth development and nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of local residents.

Behind that impact is a remarkable network of people who believe that giving, whether through time, donations or purchases, can make a real difference.

As the holiday season approaches, Kiwanis Marketplace invites both year-round and returning seasonal residents to become part of that tradition. Volunteer opportunities offer a meaningful way to connect with neighbors, make new friends and support a worthwhile cause, while donations and shopping provide additional ways to give back.

“This season of giving is a wonderful reminder that everyone has something to contribute,” said Perez. “Whether you volunteer a few hours, donate items you no longer need or simply shop with us, you are helping us make a difference for children and families throughout our community.”

At Kiwanis Marketplace, the spirit of giving doesn’t end with the holidays. It continues year-round, one volunteer hour, one donation and one treasure at a time.

About Kiwanis Marketplace and the Kiwanis Club of Carefree

Kiwanis Marketplace in Cave Creek is a community-supported resale destination where donated merchandise is transformed into funding for local charitable causes. Through the generosity of volunteers, donors and shoppers, the Marketplace helps support the Kiwanis Club of Carefree’s mission of improving the lives of children and strengthening the Desert Foothills community.

The Kiwanis Club of Carefree provides grants, scholarships and support to schools, youth programs and nonprofit organizations throughout the area. Together, the Marketplace and the Club have helped return more than $12 million to the community.