Tempe retirees turn gift shop into successful business

TEMPE, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Nestled in a corner of Friendship Village Retirement Community in Tempe is the littlest gift shop you might ever see.

Two residents of this community have turned it into a very profitable business.

With only 153 square feet of space, manager Barbara Hall and assistant manager Joanne Crawford have managed to turn the store into a thriving operation.

"I hope we can continue to hole where we are because we have done so well the last few years," said Crawford.

Hall says they made $66,000 last year.

Both live at Friendship Village and started as volunteers - 8 years ago for Hall, and 5 years ago for Crawford.

When Hall took over, the space was even smaller.

"They were remodeling the cafe, so I asked if they couldn't just make us one more little space to connect," Hall said. "They did that and they gave us a good display window."

Hall said she loves working with people the most.

Shelves are stocked with donated items. Women's clothes, jewelry, kitchen items, sheets, towels, and more - all of the proceeds help other residents.

"The money all stays right here, it's all volunteer," said Hall. "We pay no rent, we pay no salaries, so it's a win-win for everybody."

What doesn't sell is donated to the Salvation Army - so no matter what, it is a win-win for every