The Carolina Meadows Gift Shop has a mission “to serve our Residents and customers with quality merchandise and to serve and provide funds to support the Resident Association activities.”

In November, resident Marge Yanker, Gift Shop manager, presented a check for $5,000 to Roy Carroll, Residents Association president. The contribution represents half the amount the gift shop provides to the Association annually.

Ms. Yanker, manager of the shop since 2010, has broadened the types of merchandise available. The new lines include handbags, the ever-popular “popcorn” blouses, watches and other jewelry, children’s toys and scarves. To make all this happen, Ms. Yanker has a crew of 42 volunteers who work as buyers, cashiers and trainers. Of that number, 14 are cashiers with two shifts each day, five days a week, and sometimes with special openings on weekends.

In addition to the broader selection of merchandise, a point-of-sale computer system was recently installed. The machine integrates with the Dining Room, Café and Accounting Department and enables customers to charge purchases on a credit card or on their Carolina Meadows account, or to use cash. The new system makes for easier record-keeping and lets shop management track merchandise and sales.

The Gift Shop began with $5,000 in start-up funds from the Residents Association in March 1992; the funds were repaid as of January 1996. Over the years, many residents have contributed to the Gift Shop’s success, including past managers, and an array of past and current staff who work diligently to make the shop a popular and profitable venture.

By Mariechen Smith