Free Spirit opened its doors on August 14th, 2010.
As a frugal mom of two, Ruthann has always looked at shopping consignment as part of her own children’s wardrobe. When shopping in a consignment store on her way home from a family trip, she said to her husband, Heath, “I would love to do this!”
It was all uphill from there! With support from her father, Mike, they started building their dream of being the place where “MOMS & KIDS COME FIRST.”
The FREE SPIRIT NAME:
The “Free” comes from the last name, Freeland and the “Spirit” is in spirit of our family members and friends who have passed away of cancer. It was especially sensitive as the family just lost Heath’s grandfather to cancer over Christmas. It was important to keep the spirit “ALIVE” by giving back to the community! When you put the two together, the FREE SPIRIT definition is “a person with a highly individual or unique attitude, lifestyle, or imagination.” It was perfect to attract people who don’t care if their clothes are new or used, as long as it is great style that suits each individual!
Our mission is to provide quality clothing at reasonable prices while making the community a priority! A play area was a must, so moms can have a “break” while they shop! Buying local was also important. Free Spirit buys clothing outright from the community so they can redistribute it back into out local economy. Lastly, providing free community events that would bring families together and have an enjoyable experience was what makes Free Spirit truly unique from other stores!
Because Ruthann and Heath both work full time jobs, Free Spirit started with being open just 1-2 days per week. Because of the demand, it has now expanded to being open over 30 hours per week with the help of the excellent Free Spirit staff! Free Spirit has grown to add on a global, on-line store so others can experience the same great values!
Some of the unique activities that Free Spirit offers are a Charity Shoe Drive, where all proceeds go to a local little girl with Leukemia, an Easter Egg Hunt, Fashion Shows, Fund raiser for The Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey providing support for patients and families facing the battle against pediatric cancer, Princess Tea Party,
Story Time, Moms Groups and more!
Free Spirit is grateful to those who worked hard to help in the beginning to get started. We also thank those who continue to support our store. We have great pleasure in serving the community and look forward to many years to come!
With Many Thanks,
Ruthann & Heath Freeland
Proud parents of Lauren and Drew
www.shopfreespirit.com
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