The McChord Thrift Shop is run on Volunteer Power!
The McChord Thrift Shop is run by a very small number of paid staff working alongside a large volunteer group! Our volunteers are the reason the MTS is thriving after over 60 years in business. Without the commitment of our volunteers, we would be unable to open our doors on a daily basis.
Volunteer FAQs
Who can be a Volunteer at the MTS?
Volunteers must have DOD ID and access to JBLM without additional sponsorship.
Can my child volunteer?
Minors aged 15-17 may volunteer without a legal guardian, and those aged 13-14 may volunteer alongside a legal guardian.
Both groups will need a legal guardian application giving permission. A legal guardian must fill out the volunteer application and complete the initial training with the minor.
Volunteers at our 2026 Volunteer Appreciation & Scholarship Banquet.
When can I volunteer?
Monday, 8:30am - 12:30pm
Tuesday, 8:30am - 2:30pm
Wednesday, 8:30am - 2:30pm
Thursday, 8:30am - 2:30pm
Select Saturdays, 8:30am - 2:30pm
What jobs do volunteers do?
We have jobs for all levels of ability and comfortability!
We have volunteers operating the register, inputting consignment contracts, processing donations, bagging at the register, organizing shelves, maintaining the store with handyman projects, and many other jobs.
If I volunteer, do I get to choose my schedule?
Yes, volunteers get to determine the days and times they want to come volunteer. However, there are required volunteer trainings occasionally. We do ask that you choose a somewhat regular schedule to come in, so that we may predict staffing ahead of time.
Our volunteers handing out food bags to local Active Duty Families - November 2025
What is a Qualified Volunteer? What benefits do they get?
A Qualified Volunteer (QV) is a volunteer that has put in 12 working hours in the month. QVs receive multiple benefits including additional 4 weeks of consignment floor time and a 10-20% higher cut of consignment sales.
Do I have to complete a training before becoming a volunteer?
Yes, there is a 1-hour guided training, and you must read and agree to our Volunteer Handbook prior to your first volunteer day. These can be emailed for you to complete on a computer at home, or you can set up a day to complete the training here at the store. Your specific job training will happen as you work in the space, from your fellow volunteers!