Trailblazer Award - First Christian Church of Decatur

This years Trailblazer Award was given to First Christian Church of Decatur (and to St. Andrew's Presbyterian, Tucker).This past year FCCD launched Chalice Thrift, a church-run thrift store that creatively recycles and resells gently used goods including housewares, clothing, children toys and such. As a frequent shopper there, I can attest to the impressive inventory and how it’s well-merchandized. And because of the efforts of an all-volunteer staff, Chalice Thrift is able to donate over 90% of their proceeds. The shop opened August 4, 2012. Doors are open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for sales and to receive material donations. In just the first three months of operations, the store generated over $3500 in income. There is a display outside the store that reminds customers that their purchases support ministries all over the world.

FCCD has also worked very hard to embrace energy efficiency, installing automated controls for the heating and air conditioning system. They have also begun an aggressive recycling program, with a goal of reducing their waste by 50%. Way to blaze a trail FCCD in an effort to reuse and recycle!