When the Baxter County Retired Teachers Association (BCRTA) reorganized during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Arkansas Retired Teachers Association (ARTA) encouraged them to complete community service projects. During that time, BCRTA members discovered the Lucas Todd Thrift Store, also known as the LT Thrift Store, and adopted it as a focus of their efforts.
This week, AARP visited Mountain Home to film an educator impact video highlighting the work BCRTA has done in the community.
BCRTA President Carol Wegerer told KTLO, Classic Hits, and The Boot News that the organization helps fulfill student needs through the LT Thrift Store, a partnership that led to recognition by the state association.
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Wegerer said she received a phone call last summer informing her that AARP and the National Retired Teachers Association wanted to recognize the BCRTA for its work with schools.
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ARTA Executive Director Donna Morey said the BCRTA is a prime example of how retired public school teachers give back to the community.
When asked about her impressions of the LT Thrift Store, Morey said she was filled with joy upon seeing the room.
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Mary Beth Dixon with the NRTA AARP Educator Community said they plan to showcase the film nationally and at the state level to highlight what a local group of educators can accomplish in their community for retired or soon-to-be-retired teachers.
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