2026 GCOF Annual Community Yard sale

Written by Maryann Gunning, Yardsale Chairperson

The Goodwill Community Outreach Fund held its Annual Community Yard Sale on July 11th.  It was a tremendously successful event, thanks to the efforts of 108 HL Volunteers over 3 days. We are grateful to this Highland Lakes community for gathering and donating your very good quality treasures for us to sell.. The money raised for this 501(c)3 charity organization provides valuable financial assistance to our Highland Lakes neighbors through emergency assistance for heat, food and other critical needs throughout the year. 

The amazing group of volunteers, many who are still giving their time and talent over 16 years, make HLCC such a beautiful, caring & vibrant community to live in. We give a Shout-Out to the pre-teen volunteers from the swim team and a number of other NEW volunteers, especially the 25- 50 age groups. You were very helpful in the physical nature of some important tasks and your energy provides Hope for the continued care of our community for the future. 

Special thanks to the Vernon United Methodist Church and the Holy Counselor Lutheran Church for the loan of 25 long tables for the 3 days, arranged by HL members Paula Walk and Elaine Kuntz. We desperately need those tables, so their generous loan saves us a great deal of money. Additionally, we are grateful to the HLCC office staff, maintenance and security for their ongoing support of the GCOF to help our HL community members.

This year, we recognize the huge contribution of Gina and Joe Abdalla, owners of Roll Off Joe Dumpster & Garbage Services for their generous donation of the delivery and pickup of the dumpster, including the disposal fees. Thanks also to Brooklyn Pencil, LLC for the YardSale flyers & GCOF website design and maintenance and to the HL members (preferring not to be named here) who sponsored the volunteer bagel breakfast, the delicious volunteer workday lunch & refreshments, and the new T-shirts. 

Finally, while there are hundreds of small details and tasks completed by the 108 volunteers for the yard sale, I must acknowledge the truly indefatigable contributions of Kate Eisenberg, Janice Fajardo, Cathy Kenny, Carolyn Acker and Tressa Deady Kabbez. Your efforts before, during and especially cleaning up after the sale were invaluable.

Mark your calendars! The 2027 GCOF Annual Community Yard Sale is set for Saturday, July 10th.

For more info about the Goodwill Community Outreach Fund, go to gcof.org.