Affordables
The store depends on the generosity and support of the community as all the merchandise is donated. In turn, income produced at the store is needed to support paid employment training programs for north Iowans with disabilities. Trainees are able to earn a certificate in retail skills created in partnership with NIACC. Skill training covers all aspects of the retail industry including operating the cash register, stocking merchandise, helping customers, accepting donations, and preparing donated items for resale.
Affordables restocks over 300 different items each day and serves an average of 150-200 customers each day.
The store depends on the generosity and support of the community as all the merchandise is donated. In turn, income produced at the store is needed to support paid employment training programs for north Iowans. Affordables gives back to community members in need.
Shop local. All proceeds from sales at Affordables and Affordables on 1st stay in north Iowan and help support employment training programs for North Iowans with disabilities.
Be sure to visit Meredith’s Snack Shop!
Affordables on 1st
Thanks to your generous donations, NIVC Services Inc. was able to open a furniture store. Affordables on 1st was opened August 2008, and provides retail furniture training, including light refinishing, and retail employment training for individuals with disabilities.
With a focus on furniture, fitness, and furnishings skill training covers all aspects of the retail industry, including: operating the cash register, stocking merchandise, helping customers, accepting donations, and preparing donated items for resale.
See our re-purposed and upcycled furnishing and décor. Dressers, desks, and chairs are cleaned, retouched, or painted to begin a new life in your home.
Managers
- Steve Beavers (Manager) 641-423-7071 Ex. 27
- Rachel Herman (Assistant Manager – Affordables) 641-423-7071 Ex 12
- Regina White (Assistant Manager – Affordables on 1st) 641-423-0236 Ex 12
Tour our resale shop
How Can I Help?
There are four ways you can donate and help our cause:
1. Contribute
Donations of cash or financial assets are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. Give now online or mail your donation to 1225 S Harrison Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401. Use this form to name your gift in honor or memory of family and friends.
Donate through our annual Dancing for the Dream event each March.
Donate gently used household goods and clothing and better boutique clothing to Affordables, located at 315 N. Delaware Ave.
Donate furnishings and fitness equipment to Affordables on 1st at 219 1st SW.
Include NIVC Services, Inc. in your charitable estate planning or through Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation. Contact Sherry Becker at 641-423-3301 for more information.
2. Hire
Hire a person with a disability. The average cost of accommodations if needed is $50 or less.
Support career development and training by offering tours, job shadowing or internships.
3. Outsource
Contract with NIVC Services for assembly, light manufacturing, recycling, and pallets.
4. Shop
Shop at the Affordables stores. Find new and used kitchenware, clothing, and furniture. All proceeds stay in north Iowa and help north Iowans.
Stop in at Java Works in the Commons of Mason City Library. Enjoy coffees, espresso drinks, baked goods and sandwiches.