How C2A’s Op Shops Help Build Community
When most people think of Op Shops, they picture racks of pre-loved clothing, shelves of bric-a-brac and a treasure trove of books, furniture and homewares. But Local Community Op Shops in Melbourne and regional Victoria are so much more. They’re places where community thrives and where people connect, learn and give back in ways that make a lasting difference.
For C2A, our four Op Shops located in Melbourne and regional Victoria are so much more. They’re places where community thrives and where people connect, learn and give back in ways that make a lasting difference. They also play a crucial role in the organisation’s objective to help those in need by offering reasonably priced goods and generating meaningful jobs.
Here’s why it’s worth supporting these local community second-hand shopping destinations in Melbourne and in regional Victoria.
A place for everyone
C2A’s local community Op Shops in Melbourne and throughout Victoria welcome people from all walks of life. Shoppers discover quality second-hand goods at affordable prices. Donors feel good knowing their items will be reused or rehomed, and volunteers and staff gain skills, friendships and purpose.
The impact doesn’t stop there. Every purchase directly funds C2A’s vital community programs, which provide essential support to individuals with disability in the form of supported employment and day programs.
Who benefits from C2A op shops?
1. Employees and volunteers
Behind the counter, in the sorting room and out on the shop floor, C2A’s Op Shops in Melbourne and regional Victoria communities are powered by dedicated teams. For many volunteers, it’s a chance to build confidence, develop retail and customer service skills and gain valuable work experience. For others, it’s about companionship and being part of something bigger than themselves.
Those who help out on the shop floor learn everything from merchandising and pricing to presentation and teamwork, and volunteering or working at a C2A Op Shop often serves as a stepping stone towards new opportunities.
Find out more about volunteering at a C2A Op Shop.
2. Shoppers and bargain hunters
Families on a budget, vintage lovers and eco-conscious shoppers all find something to love in a C2A Op Shop. The stores make quality goods accessible to everyone, encouraging sustainable shopping and reducing waste.
3. Donors
Donating pre-loved items like clothes, books and household goods makes you feel connected to the community and good about supporting a worthy cause because they know they are helping to support a worthy cause.
Note: Bring pre-loved items to one of our op shops during opening hours, when team members are on hand to help inspect and unload. We ask you to make sure that items are clean and in a safe and functional condition. We appreciate your possessions may have had a good life but if they are damaged, stained, broken or faulty, please don’t pass them on for our hard-working op shop volunteers to dispose of. Our op shops vary in space and types of goods on the floor, so if you have larger items, please call ahead.
4. People with disability
As well as providing retail experience for people with disability, our community Op Shops are a vital source of funding to help us deliver important services and facilities including equipment and aids, community inclusion programs, community engagement vehicles and skills training programs.
View our services for people with disability.
C2A’s Op Shop Locations
C2A’s network of community Op Shops are located as follows:
Every C2A Op Shop has its own mix of hidden gems, but they all share one purpose: turning donations into life-changing help.
C2A’s Mission in Action
Op Shops are a key part of C2A’s broader vision to create pathways for people to thrive. By offering affordable goods, fostering employment and volunteer opportunities and generating vital funds, they are part of a lifeline for countless individuals with disability, and their families.
When you shop, donate or volunteer, you’re not just supporting an op shop; you’re helping create a stronger and more connected community.
Join the movement
C2A (Connecting2Ability) is a registered NDIS provider and not-for-profit organisation that has been supporting people with disability since 1953. Our popular Op Shops support our broader vision to help our clients live the best life they can.
Whether you have items to donate, time to volunteer or a shopping list to fill, your involvement makes a difference. Every purchase, every hour and every bag of goods helps C2A continue its journey of care, connection and empowerment.
Shop, Donate or Volunteer at Local Community Op Shops in Melbourne
Support your neighbourhood by shopping, donating or volunteering at C2A’s local community Op Shops in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Every purchase and every donation helps fund vital community programs and creates opportunities for those who need them most. Find your nearest store today at c2a.org.au/about/op-shops.