A COMPANY KNOWN BY ITS PEOPLE
A Message From Co-Founder, Dick Gygi
You’ve probably heard the saying, “You’re known by the company you keep.” Well, I’ve always believed the heart of a company beats strongest through its people. That’s why at ThriftSmart, we boast over 130 years of combined expertise in the thrift business within our leadership alone. But it’s not just our experience that sets us apart; it’s our unwavering commitment to our mission and the deep faith that guides us.
Here at ThriftSmart, we’re not just about being thrifty and smart shoppers. What
truly makes us unique is the love weshare and the hope we bring to those served by our charity partners (1 Corinthians 13:8). It’s a vision so clear and so deeply ingrained in every one of us, from the front lines to the back office, ensuring we’ve got just the right person in every role. We’ve set clear priorities, fostering an environment where trust, open communication, and personal responsibility aren’t just encouraged—they’re the norm.
Patrick Lencioni once said, “The single greatest advantage any company can achieve is organizational health…rooted in trust, communication, and accountability.” I couldn’t agree more. A healthy team learns, grows, and gets smarter together, making us not just a business, but a community.
But here’s the thing—teamwork isn’t just a feel-good concept. It’s a deliberate strategy that we’ve woven into the fabric of ThriftSmart. By investing time and energy into nurturing our team dynamics, we’ve turned collaboration into our superpower.
And the beauty of it all? This foundation of mutual love and trust doesn’t just make us more efficient
and decision-savvy; it makes every day more enjoyable. It’s the secret sauce that makes working here not just a job, but a joy.
Don’t just take my word for it, though. Ask Rhonda, Joshua, Haydee, Eric, or Paiwand. They’ve each ventured out only to return to the ThriftSmart family, drawn back by the unique spirit of camaraderie and purpose we share. Their journeys are a testament to the powerful bond we’ve built, one that I’m incredibly proud of.
In essence, ThriftSmart is a reflection of its people—dedicated, passionate, and united in purpose. We’re not just a company; we’re a community, driven by a mission to make a difference. And that, my friends, is what truly defines us.
132 YEARS OF SERVICE
And Counting…
At the heart of ThriftSmart’s success is our incredible team. Each member brings their unique skills, passion, and dedication to our mission, making our workplace not just a store, but a community where hope and love flourish. Today, I want to shine a spotlight on some of the remarkable individuals who make ThriftSmart the vibrant, thriving place it is.
Dick R. Gygi – With 18 years under his belt, Dick has not only been a cornerstone of ThriftSmart but also
a visionary leader whose faith and commitment have guided us through every challenge and triumph.
Martha Vivanco – For 17 years, Martha’s unwavering dedication has been instrumental in weaving the rich tapestry of our ThriftSmart family, her warmth and enthusiasm lighting up every corner of our store.
Bruce Krapf – Bruce’s 16 years of service have been marked by an incredible knack for innovation and a heart as big as his ideas, helping us grow smarter and stronger every day.
Rhonda Fergus and Joshua Inman – Each with 12 years of dedication, Rhonda and Joshua embody the spirit of teamwork and community. Their journeys reflect the essence of ThriftSmart, with paths that led them away but hearts that brought them back home to us.
Haydee Romero Cruz – Haydee has been with us for 11 wonderful years, her vibrant spirit and compa
ssionate soul making her an indispensable part of our ThriftSmart family.
Ruben Rodriguez – Celebrating a decade of service, Ruben’s commitment and hard work have been pivotal in bringing our mission to life, touching the lives of those we serve.
Jacquelyn Marquez – In her 8 years with us, Jacquelyn has shown that true strength lies in compassion and collaboration, her contributions echoing through our community.
Pari Shamil – Pari’s 7 years at ThriftSmart have been marked by an unwavering dedication to our values, her effortshelping to bridge cultures and communities within our walls.
Eric A. Yocum – Eric’s 6 years with us have been characterized by innovation and leadership, driving us forward while keeping our mission at heart.
Juan Pablo Marquez, Jaqueline Aguilar-Mendez and Paiwand Duski – With 5 years each, Juan Pablo, Jaqueline and Paiwand have brought fresh perspectives and relentless energy, enriching our ThriftSmart tapestry.
Each of these individuals, with their unique journeys and shared passion, contribute to the very soul of ThriftSmart. They are the embodiment of our belief that a company is truly known by the people it keeps. Together, we’re not just a team; we’re a family, committed to making a difference, one day, one donation, and one sale at a time.