Pocono News Section

Wilkes University Freshmen Lend a Hand

Wilkes University Freshmen Lend a Hand - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 3:38PM EST

Reported by: Nicole Borocci
Monday, Jun 23, 2008 @ 03:38pm EST

WILKES-BARRE , LUZERNE COUNTY - Incoming freshmen at Wilkes University got a crash course in Carpentry 101 Monday.

As part of their orientation, they helped with the effort to open a thrift store sponsored by the Volunteers of America.

It’ll be located on South Main St. in Wilkes-Barre in a building that's been vacant for years.

“You didn't expect to see empty store fronts. It's a revitalization. It's an amazing thing to be a part of," said student, Benjamin Beidel.

Student mentors at Wilkes say sorting through the nuts and bolts is a great way for the freshmen to get to know each other and their new community.

For them to be able to share in the experience, and then share with the community, it sets the tone, let's them know what Wilkes is all about," student Carlton Holmes said.

"I asked them what they wanted to accomplish and what they're doing here and they had all the right answers, these kids were ready to rock 'n roll," store manager Chip Weiss said.

Students assembled enough racks in just two hours to save other employees two whole days of work.

The empty racks won't stay that way for long, because the donations are beginning to stack up.

“A big portion is clothing but we'll take toys, appliances, furniture," Weiss said.

The store is scheduled to open by mid-July. Everyone involved with the project hopes it has a lasting presence in the Diamond City .

"I'll come back four years later and say, 'I helped put that together, I helped with that," Beidel said.

If you're interested in donating, call the Volunteers of America at 829-5100.