LIBERTY — Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries hosted a collaborative gathering last week, bringing together local nonprofit organizations in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Thrift Trail, which officially begins today.

The event served as a planning opportunity and a celebration of community partnership, highlighting the power of nonprofits working together toward a shared goal.

The Thrift Trail Map initiative encourages community members to explore local thrift stores, while supporting missions that directly impact Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties. While the collaboration has been months in the making, the spirit of unity was especially evident as representatives from multiple organizations came together to connect, share ideas and build momentum for the trail.

Organizations in attendance included The Way Station, Veterans’ Outreach in Liberty, Penny Pinchers of Boardman, The Menagerie by the American Welfare League of Trumbull County in Niles, Habitat ReStore in Struthers, St. Vincent de Paul of Mahoning County Thrift Store in Boardman, St. Vincent de Paul of Trumbull County Thrift Store in Warren and the Corner Store in East Palestine. Angels Mission in Boardman and the Salvation Army are also participating in this year’s Thrift Trail.

“This is what community impact looks like,” said Goodwill CEO Shelley Murray. “The Thrift Trail is more than a map. It’s a collaboration that brings nonprofits together, strengthens relationships, and creates a shared experience for the community while supporting missions that truly make a difference.”

Community members can support the Thrift Trail by making a donation to purchase a map anytime between now and the conclusion of the trail in late March. Maps are available online at goodwillyoungstown.org/the-thrift-trail or in person at Goodwill headquarters, 2747 Belmont Ave., Liberty.