Agencies work together to help each other, community

In a tough economy where every business is having to tighten its belt, nonprofit organizations are no exception.

But the burden of limited resources can be eased somewhat when agencies work together.

A partnership between the Salvation Army of the Shoals and the Arc/Hope Haven Adult Training Center has resulted in the Salvation Army Family Store in Sheffield getting the volunteer help it needs and Arc clients getting the benefit of workplace training.

Both are United Way agencies and both are in the business of bettering the lives of those they serve. So, when a plan came about for the two to work together, it seemed a natural union.

"We're trying to get our clients out in the community and let people know who we are and see what we can do," said Donna Akins, executive director of Arc of the Shoals, which serves those with mental and developmental disabilities.

"In this economy, all of us nonprofits are struggling for every penny we can get, and when we can help ease each other's burdens, that's a great situation."

Arc clients volunteer at the Sheffield thrift store each week doing a variety of jobs such as sorting and hanging clothing.

Store manager Jim Green said the two agencies have worked well together, and opportunities to help each other beyond the routine work in the store have surfaced.

"We got a really nice, oversized wheelchair at the store and found out about an Arc client in need of one and gave it to him," Green said. "It's a good example of how we work together and take care of each other."

Karon Grubbs, campaign manager for the United Way of Northwest Alabama, said the partnership between the Salvation Army and the Arc is just one example of "two agencies working hand in hand to better the lives of people in our community."

According to Akins, Arc clients also are working with other nonprofit organizations, including Loaves and Fishes and Meals on Wheels.

Lisa Singleton-Rickman can be reached at 740-5735 or at lisa.singleton-rickman@TimesDaily.com.