Steph is the Department Manager for textiles at ReUse MegaCenter. They have been with ReUse since 2019.
“I’ve been working at ReUse for just under three and a half years now. I was doing some volunteer hours just after I turned 18 and was encouraged by Jess and Bill profusely to apply. I started as a retail assistant, walking around too fast and lifting everything I could touch. I was the first person (and only person for a few weeks) to return to the Textiles Department after the pandemic shutdown. My focus has mainly been in textiles since the start but I’ve learned about/worked in more than half of the departments, and spent some time in the Summer with Field Crew. Now I’ve been managing all of Textiles for about a year. “
“My biggest challenge working at ReUse is (not to brag or anything) the copious amounts of ideas and projects I have all of the time. I feel like there are a lot of changes I’d like to make, or help make at least. It’s hard to keep track of everything. I’ve grown to understand our mission statement on a more personal level by trying to work more directly with/for the people. I’ve collaborated with Family and Child Services providing clothing & blankets to those in need [assisting with a ReMAP collaboration], I’ve helped collect items for shoe drives and local events. I’m always talking to people on the floor about what their stories are. I’ve evolved by listening and learning.“
What are some changes you would like to see Finger Lakes ReUse make this year?
“I’d like to see reuse and continue to learn how to REUSE! I love seeing or sharing ideas about how to keep things in use. The reuse world can get so creative when you’ve got resources. I’d like to continue to share and learn from all of the unique people in the community. “