Penny Wise Thrift Store
A Kind & Good Community Partner
By Sherry Holdiman
Committed community activists Peter and Patricia Fessler arrived in Oregon in the early 1970’s. Married for 47 years, Peter, a retired Army and Air Force Veteran of 34 years, along with his wife Patricia a former attorney in England, now call Clatsop County their home. Patricia’s experience includes operating her own employment agency, providing employment opportunities in varied fields of labor and industry while living in England. Their mission: Serving others seven days a week.
The Fesslers are passionate about supporting their community and anyone in need regardless of circumstance. Together they currently own and facilitate Penny-Wise Thrift Store located in Warrenton, Oregon. Devoted to public service, once a client’s needs are identified, they are referred to the appropriate program, service, or resource within our community. What is notable about Penny-Wise is that all proceeds or contributions are ear-marked to help citizens specifically diagnosed with a mental illness. This public entity operates as a 501C3 organization and all workers are volunteers.
“What matters most is putting people with mental illness back on track, it’s not about the money” explained Patricia. Focused on treating the person not the personality, Peter and Patricia are trained volunteers for “NAMI”, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, as well as experienced hospice volunteers training and serving through Columbia Memorial Hospital.
Clatsop County District Attorney Josh Marquis previously stated that a mental illness crisis exists in Clatsop County. Given the humanitarian work provided by the Fesslers, our community is certain to expect a healthier resolve given their experience, along with commitment to those struggling with mental illness.
Public awareness and involvement are valuable and key to a healthier community. Anyone can become an active partner, volunteer or contributor. Other aspects of work at Penny-Wise include being an on-site community service partner hosting clients and helping individuals fulfill their obligations mandated by the court’s community corrections process.
The first Monday of every month the Fesslers facilitate a DBSA group at Columbia Memorial Hospital. The Depression Bipolar Support Alliance, known world-wide, extends support to all clients, doing whatever is needed, while providing tools for understanding for those living with mental illness.
Please direct all inquiries for classes or other information regarding DBSA to Peter or Patricia Fessler @ Penny-Wise, 503-861-2711.
