5 min read
Embracing Life’s Twists & Turns: A Path of Hope in Recovery
Completing the 5-phase Life Recovery program marks the beginning of a life of recovery outside the walls of UGM. Individuals embark on a lifelong...
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UGM Thrift Stores
5 min read
Redeemed and Renewed: A testimony of God's grace
This winter, UGM resident Alethea shared her testimony at a staff meeting. With tremendous vulnerability and newfound confidence, she recounted how...
2 min read
Recovery and Retail: Hope comes from UGM Thrift Stores
Three women from the UGM Recovery program achieved well-deserved positions at the Coeur d’Alene Thrift Store. Megan, Debra, and Starla serve as...
2 min read
7 Reasons to Donate, Shop, and Save at UGM Thrift Stores
Who doesn't love a good deal? And when you can get a good deal and impact lives at the same time...it’s that much better, right? At Union Gospel...
6 min read
2023: A year of kindness
Jessica Morgan, Director of Marketing and Communications: January 4, 2024
When we think back on the last year, there’s an overwhelming sense of goodwill and support from the Inland Northwest community that seems to only...
4 min read
Reselling Goods, Rebuilding Lives: UGM Thrift Stores offer life change
Genevieve Gromlich, former Content and Communications Manager: August 17, 2023
Whether you’re outfitting a new college dorm or stocking up on cozy sweaters, if you’re shopping at a thrift store, chances are you’re after a good...
5 min read
Generosity at UGM Thrift Stores
Union Gospel Mission: January 22, 2020
Laurie Johnson, “L.J.,” as she’s called at the UGM Thrift Store, is as dedicated a volunteer as they come. Over the years, she has volunteered with a...
3 min read
Ministry in a Thrift Store
Union Gospel Mission: January 15, 2020
Meet Jaclyn, Manager at the UGM Downtown Thrift Store By Christy Zapata, UGM Volunteer - Although she couldn't see it at the time, God had been...
5 min read
Dusty's Second Chance
Union Gospel Mission: December 4, 2019
By Lynn Yount, UGM volunteer - At the UGM Thrift Store in Spokane Valley, you'll find more than bargains on high-quality clothing and housewares....
3 min read
A Brief History of UGM, Part 2: 1987 to Present
Lynn Yount, UGM Volunteer: August 23, 2018
Part 1 of the history of UGM covered our founding in 1951 through the retirement of Executive Director Harry Altmeyer in 1987. We pick up as his son...
4 min read
Cleaning Out Your Closet, Changing Someone's Life
Lynn Yount, UGM Volunteer: August 11, 2017
Of course, thrift stores are cool. Napoleon Dynamite and Macklemore told (and rapped) us that. Thrift is also a smart and environmentally friendly...
3 min read
Following His Lead: Kristen
Lynn Yount, UGM Volunteer: August 5, 2016
“Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” I John 4:4b As assistant manager at the downtown UGM Thrift Store, Kristen Nitschke works...
3 min read
Surviving vs. Thriving
Union Gospel Mission: July 5, 2016
Through partnerships with businesses and the community in general, UGM helps men and women find jobs, jobs that allow them to support themselves,...
2 min read
Recovery and Regaining Confidence
Merrily Roe, former staff writer: April 3, 2015
By Merrily Brast, Staff Writer Sewing gave Glenda Gray confidence. One year ago, Glenda was forming her own business sewing and selling tote bags. “I...
2 min read
Christmas Shopping that Helps the Homeless
Merrily Roe, former staff writer: December 5, 2014
By Merrily Brast, former Staff Writer “Try it on! Try it on!” As each of 20 cousins, aunts, and uncles from Tiffany Riddle’s family opened their...
2 min read
Lee Brown: Servant and all-around cool guy
Union Gospel Mission: November 19, 2014
By Merrily Brast, former Staff Writer Looking at Lee Brown, you may not be shocked to discover he once played football professionally (although,...
1 min read
UGM Motors: Brittany and Brooklyn get new wheels
Barbara Comito, former marketing director: September 9, 2013
Reliable transportation critical for single moms Brittany Branch had a car when she started Women’s Recovery at Anna Ogden Hall – a 1988 Dodge...
1 min read
Good-bye, dear friend
Barbara Comito, former marketing director: July 1, 2013
Grace Peterson created a beautiful tapestry with her life, and the people of UGM – staff, residents and volunteers – are oh-so-grateful to have been...
1 min read
Take Action: Pray
Union Gospel Mission: April 1, 2013
“Throw out the rule book and simply talk to God -- any way, anywhere, anytime about anything.” – Joyce Meyer
2 min read
From Gang Banger to Responsible Father
Barbara Comito, former marketing director: January 15, 2013
Zachariah’s story is written in ink all over his body. His mom died when he was 12. The tear drop under his eye is for her. He never knew his dad. At...
3 min read
Making Old Things New
Union Gospel Mission: September 1, 2012
“My exterior has nothing to do with my heart.” Zachariah’s story is written in ink all over his body. His mom died when he was 12. The tear drop...