A Blessing Beyond the Register
CHERYL ARCHER FINDS COMFORT AND FAMILY IN FAIRVIEW PARK COMMON THREADS COMMUNITY
“I needed something new, a breath of fresh air. Discovering that Common Threads (CT) is rooted in faith was a sign to me,” shared Cheryl Archer, a dedicated CT employee at the Fairview Park store for seven years.
Back in the spring of 2016, before the inaugural store opened, Cheryl worked next door to what is now the Fairview Park CT, in the heart of Fairview Village Plaza. As the preparations for the store's grand opening were underway, she found herself drawn to the energy emanating from the space. After facing a challenging season in her life, she was in search of something new and invigorating. The realization that CT was founded on Christian principles, being the first social enterprise venture of Building Hope in the City (BHITC), served as a divine sign for her to seek employment there. "It was the first job in a long time where I truly felt at peace," Cheryl fondly recalled.
From the very beginning, Cheryl witnessed the transformation of CT into the remarkable establishment it is today. "Every team member who joined us just seemed to fit perfectly," Cheryl explained. "The staff felt like a close-knit family, and every shift was a joy to be with my work family." The familial atmosphere among the staff had a ripple effect, extending into the shopping experience, with customers frequently expressing that they too felt the warmth and love during their visits.
As a people-motivated person, Cheryl looked forward to interacting with customers each shift. "My favorite part of working at Common Threads has always been the customers," Cheryl expressed. "If they were having a tough day, it was a privilege to lend an ear and offer understanding." Cheryl formed genuine bonds with customers, often providing encouragement and support to them through life's challenges. This level of care goes beyond mere customer service and contributes to the culture that has earned CT the title of 'Cleveland's Best Thrift Store' by readers of Scene Magazine for multiple consecutive years now. "Cheryl always made time to connect with both staff and customers. I consider her more like a sister than just a friend or coworker," shared Marcy Feldt, a fellow CT employee.
As Cheryl navigated her own set of life's trials, including the loss of her husband, the CT community became a source of comfort. "On my bad days, I wanted to be at work," Cheryl explained.“This job is unusual in that it kept me going during hard times. It is more than just a job.” She attributes her love for the store to heartfelt conversations with customers, the support and care she received from fellow employees, and the store's leadership. Regarding Jeff Stredney, BHITC Director of Social Enterprise, Cheryl noted, "Jeff genuinely cares about his staff and their lives. He begins meetings with prayers for the team and the stores, sincerely praying for their needs." Cheryl continued, "The community at the store is familiar and warm. Everyone is full of grace and easy to talk to. It is so easy to give hugs there!"
Cheryl devoted seven years to CT, forming deep relationships with both staff and customers. As she transitions into a new season of life, relocating out-of-town to be closer to family, she is unable to continue working at CT. Her influence has been pivotal in shaping the culture at the Fairview Park store, and her character and compassion will forever leave an indelible mark. Her absence will be felt by everyone she encountered within the CT community over the years. "Cheryl's genuine love for customers was a constant source of joy. She is a remarkable woman, inside and out," praised Joan Larsen, a fellow CT employee.
“Cheryl is an incredible colleague that ministered to thousands of people through her craft of customer service. Over her time at CT, she turned routine transactions into relationships, customers into friends, and co-workers into family. Her presence blessed us beyond words, and Common Threads would not be the brand we are without her,” shares Jeff. Indeed, God has a way of bringing the right people into our lives at precisely the right moment, for purposes that only He could orchestrate.
We thank God for His faithfulness in building our broader BHITC community!
