July 2026

Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness? If you have, you know it really makes your day. One example of such a random act happened a few days ago at 733 S Stark Hwy (the place of Hand in Hand’s new home). One of our female volunteers was struggling to raise a stack of plywood boards in front of the building off the ground. Out of nowhere, two men appeared and asked if they could help. It turned out that Bill Hebert owns the building diagonally across the street and with his friend Jason saw the struggle going on and just stepped in. It certainly made a difference and made the volunteer’s day.

Thanks to volunteer Brian Sullivan’s dedication and hard work the grounds at our new location are beautifully kept: lawns cut, hedges trimmed and stone walls cleared.

Volunteers Greg Walthers, Richard Walthers, Joe McCarron, Gerry Morin, Mike Pelletier, Ron Merrill, Suzanne Marcroft and Elayne Trudel have all gone full speed ahead with removing walls, repairing walls and floors, dismantling bathrooms, painting, cabinet making, and helping Hand in Hand get things done.

CEO Ken Duchesne from Granite State Plumbing and Heating has arranged for work to begin on a new heating system for the Thrift Shop and 1890 section. We are so grateful for their involvement and generosity.

In the meantime, we are keeping things going at our current location. The Thrift Shop is open on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11-4. A mega 50% off sale is going on until we move. Regular Wednesday lunches and activities continue. There’s a hike (Friday, August 14 at 9 a.m. to Arethusa Falls – Crawford Notch State Park – contact Donna- dmccarronsip60@yahoo.com).

Then there’s Book Group on Tuesday, August 18 at noon. The book, “Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee, is a historical fiction novel. Come to the Center to pick up a book. The movie, also on Tuesday, August 18 @3:00, is “The Shawshank Redemption.” Of course, there’s yoga and Tai Chi, crafts and conversation every week. Come and join us.

All are welcome to lunch every Wednesday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Dine in, take out, or free delivery (call 603-529-4263). Coffee, tea, and various desserts are also available. Donations are graciously accepted. All are welcome to stay and socialize, play games, enjoy cribbage and work on crafts.

Should you be interested in helping us get ready to open our new doors, please let us know (hkurk@hihsc.org). There is still a lot to do, and we can use your help.

“Helping others is the secret sauce to a happy life.” - Todd Stocker