Little Ray of Sunshine

Community Inclusion

Brittney Bohn’s voice always fills the room when she stops by the Salvation Army Thrift Store to volunteer.

Bohn has been bringing her big personality to help light up the Salvation Army Thrift Store since 2019. Anna Moran, the regional store manager, said that she calls her a “little ray of sunshine,” because you can’t help but smile when Bohn is present.

“The Arc approached us needing a space to do some job exploration, and our doors are always open for that. I always wanted to have that opportunity for people here,” Moran said.

Bohn has formed some friendships with staff at the store over the years, and that’s part of the purpose of The Arc’s Community Inclusion program – to help cross paths and connect with other people that clients wouldn’t otherwise get to meet.

Bohn has a sharp eye for commentary as she straightens items among the clothing racks and clears away lone hangers with Community Inclusion Specialist, Erin Ormsby.

The two joke about the work as they move through the store as “Time For Me to Fly” plays over the store’s speakers.

“She’s very organized and detail-oriented,” Ormsby said.

On this particular volunteer trip, the big incentive for the afternoon’s work is the cookies waiting in the breakroom, which Bohn frequently refers back to with excitement.

Moran said you can always tell when Bohn is there because you can’t mistake her voice. “It was always very pleasant here, but she really makes it a happy environment,” Moran said. “She does more than check hangers. It’s good for Brittney and I think it’s also good for us to have Brittney here.”

Top left: Brittney Bohn sorts through racks at the Salvation Army Thrift Store

Right: Brittney Bohn cracks a joke with Community Inclusion Specialist, Erin Ormsby