An Ararat community organisation recently marked a special milestone, moving past one decade in operation.
The Ararat YMCA Opportunity (Op) Shop recently marked 10 years of operation.
The Op Shop formed through the ideas of a community member who wanted to give back to the community. That passion grew and with a team of volunteers, the Op Shop was established.
The Op Shop currently has about 20 volunteers who help keep it running.
"I enjoy coming to the Op Shop sorting through the items, meeting people and helping the customers find a great bargain when they walk in." long-serving volunteer Rhonda Arthur said.
The Op Shop has had several locations over the past 10 years, now sitting at its iconic location on Lambert Street. The Op Shop sign is one that stands out for drivers coming from Stawell towards Ballarat on the Western Highway.
"The YMCA Op Shop has been a fantastic opportunity to support and engage with local people and make an impact through our work. We are fortunate to have such wonderful volunteers, dedicated to the cause." YMCA Ballarat and Grampians region chief executive Brooke LeSueur said.
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