HERNDON, Va. — Bill Arey spent more than four decades working for the federal government as an engineer. But it was after that career ended that he found his true passion at a Herndon, Virginia thrift store.
“I think what I did was important,” Arey said recalling his days working in national defense. “But I didn’t touch anybody.”
When a member of his church recruited Arey to volunteer at “The Closet” store, he began picking up shifts with his wife Betty. Nearly 15 years later, they have continued volunteering in retirement. The couple spends 40 hours, six days a week at the nonprofit.
“Yeah, a lot of retired people think we’re crazy,” Betty, who spent her career working as a pre-school teacher, said.
Betty now mainly coordinates the shop’s stock of toys, many of which are priced at a dollar or less. “We want people who are strapped for cash to be able to give their kids some toy,” Betty said while fighting back tears. “I just want them to have something. This is my way of making sure that can happen.”
Bill helps manage The Closet’s voucher program, which allows people in need to purchase items at no cost.
“You feel like you’re really giving back to the community,” Bill said.
The Closet began operating in 1974 after being founded by several faith-based congregations. Now in its 50th year, the store runs mostly on volunteers like Bill and Betty
“You’re never going to solve the world’s problems,” Bill said. “But if you can help a few people, that’s the best you can do.”
This story is part of WUSA9’s ongoing series “The Heart of It”, which highlights inspiring and emotional stories from the DMV and beyond. If you have a story suggestion for Sean Martinelli, you can email TheHeartOfIt@wusa9.com