It’s not just those who live in Green Valley who often visit and enjoy this unique and sizable thrift shop, but people all over Southern Arizona, and way beyond. Having a few names through the years of it’s existence, “Country Fair White Elephant Inc.” was adopted as its official name way back in 1993. Commonly called by most people the “White Elephant” (W.E.), there are over 600 volunteers, men and women, who have a special place in their hearts for this property sitting upon the acreage at 601 N. La Cañada in Green Valley.

Those awesome volunteers could also almost call it “their second home”. Why? The large number of hours of loving and committed attention to this place is a reflection of their incredible dedication, where they donate generously of their time, energy, and expertise. General Manager Karen Lavo has surrounded herself with some great people, a team of truly wonderful folks. Cheers to the Volunteers!! The volunteers at the White Elephant are giving a great gift to their community, a gift that is more valuable than their money, gold or silver. They give the gift of their time!! These are the kinds of people that really make the difference!

The volunteers at the W.E., without question, have been a major key to the success of this organization through the years. When talking with some of the helpers, I heard a variety of different and yet common remarks about their experiences at the White Elephant. The bottom line: They love this place!! They mentioned of their desire to volunteer here because they get to help improve the quality of life for so many folks who are in need. They are working to benefit several causes that are very special and personal to them. Some of the causes that are benefited by the W.E. include public and private schools, youth organizations, national disease control organizations, adult and child assistance organizations, community art support, area nature study preservation and rural fire departments. (When you shop at or donate to the W.E., your monies are used in very big ways to help so many… and that is what fuels the fire in the hearts of these volunteers!) Others voiced their love for volunteering at the W.E. because it gives them a chance to meet new friends and to build new relationships outside of their home. Many have been volunteering at the White Elephant for over 5, 10,15, and 20 years.

The White Elephant is always in need of year round volunteers. We especially need individuals who are able to lift at least 30-50 pounds to work in our Customer Pickup department and on our trucks. Our truck crew volunteers must be able to lift at least 50 pounds and work 6:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Other volunteer opportunities are also available at this time on various days of the week. The minimum work commitment is 4 hours per week, one day a week, Monday through Saturday. Morning shifts are available. Volunteer applications are available from cashiers during store hours and in the donation drop-off area of the building. Please complete your application and return it to the White Elephant. Once your application is received, you will be contacted to start the process to get you started as a White Elephant volunteer! If you have any questions about volunteering at the White Elephant, please contact the store directly at (520) 625-4119.

We hope you’ll consider being a White Elephant Volunteer! And remember, people who volunteer on a regular basis have a healthier outlook on life. They are more inclined to have more energy and consistently report being happier. Young, old, professional, student, teacher – it doesn’t matter.

Volunteering is good for everyone and it’s a great way to help raise money for your community. You’ll have fun, make friends and get a good workout while helping raise money to support the many programs and services vital to the welfare of the community and its residents.