2019 Top-Rated Nonprofit

The Sharing Center

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Food, Food Banks & Pantries, Homeless & Housing, Homeless Centers, Housing Expense Reduction Support, Human Services

Mission: To provide essential resources to those in need while ensuring dignity, reflecting Christian generosity and sharing God's love.

Community Stories

64 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

Jess M.6, Client Served

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

The Sharing Center was a blessing to us when we first moved here. We are so thankful for them! Had we not found them we wouldn't have been able to eat for days. The staff/volunteers are all so kind and helpful! Truly amazing! They are the only local thrift store and food bank we donate to.

1

KathyAe Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/14/2020

I found The Sharing Center as a Thrift Shop Customer and have been volunteering in the Thrift Shop and other areas for longer than I can remember, around 20 years. I know the customers and love to help them find what they need and display the merchandise. It is so rewarding to know that an overwhelming percentage of our earnings goes right back into the community.

1

ljmlnp Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/22/2020

I have volunteered at events, in the pantry, during holiday food distribution, and donated to the Sharing Center with clothing, food, furniture and items for the Oasis. My women’s group also supports the Sharing Center by volunteering, donating food, and hygiene items and cash definitions. This organization concentrates on returning most of its profits back to the community.

2

rachel7m3 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/22/2020

I’ve been volunteering here with my service organization for over a year now. I also am a customer at the thrift store. Very friendly staff both at the DC and the store. The store has great deals and some really amazing finds! Love all that they do in the community as well.

1

volunteerinflorida Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/20/2020

I've been volunteering for The Sharing Center for almost four months now. I've found the staff and other volunteers to be highly engaged and grateful for my help and the help of others. In addition to volunteering, I've also begun to make donations to their thrift store as a way to increase my giving. Apparently, the organization went through a much needed change in leadership last year. Among other things, I learned that the former leader had employed and paid family members. That's a definite no-no in my book. Some of these poor reviews must be from former disgruntled employees. Who knows?

I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Sharing Center as a place to volunteer and support.

Review from Guidestar

2

amcolangelo Client Served

Rating: 1

05/20/2020

How can you call yourself a Christian and be as cold with no sense of compassion in this time of crisis. I am a first year teacher and had not managed to save much money, because teachers in Florida are not paid well and most of my extra money went back into my classroom. Because as a teacher, we are selfless people, who care more about the well being of or students and helping our students than our personal finances. Something I would have thought would have been a shared feeling with this organization. Sadly not. My fiance and I live together, he graduated from college and started grad school in January, and this is cheaper. A worker thinks we are terrible people for that. She berated us tell us this is our fault and could have been avoided by saving. For an event no one could financially prepared for, especially as college students. She literally told us to get rid of our cats. Hipocritical and sad.

Stacy W.2 Donor

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

I love this place. A charity that actually helps people. My favorite charity to give to. You can feel the goodness radiating off these people. I`v seen the good they do.

Turtle13 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

I learned about The Sharing Center through my church. First, I dropped off goods for them. They were very helpful and thanked me generously. Then I volunteered with my church and worked in the stores and sorted clothing. I found the people who work at the Sharing
Center to be filled with kindness and love. They helped each client with respect and helped then locste what was needed. If it wasn't locsted, they suggested they return another day or gave them the names of other close services
It reminded me of the movie where Macys sent customers to Gimbels. It's a very warming atmosphere.

1

Kathleen Lions A. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

I have volunteered with the sharing center for 15 years. It is a joy to see the happiness on the faces of the people we help with clothing from the Thrift Shop. I love working with the other volunteers and the managers. My church helps with food distribution from the pantry. It is a joy for us to participate in this effort.

1corona2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

Love the expanded services and client outreach. Great new leadership!

Liza D. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

I volunteered at the Oasis cutting hair for the homeless. It is truly remarkable to see the difference from when they first walk in the door and when they leave after having a shower their laundry done a haircut and a snack. It is little things like that that can change a persons perspective. So proud I was a small part of this Awesome organization.

Jenny.3.3.3 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/11/2019

The sharing center is great. They helped me 5 times a year with food. This really got me through a hard time.

Jason S.8 Donor

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

What a wonderful place, they have showers and resources for the local homeless, have a great thirft store for the community and also offer various services such as a food bank and other forms of assistance. I'm truly amazed and the hard work and results of this group. Thank you so much for all you do.

ajsjoy Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

My daughter and I volunteered here and saw firsthand that this is an amazing organization that truly cares!

lynnklahn Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

I have volunteered for the Christian Sharing Center For about ten years.
They are always so kind and generous to their clients. I love helping out.

magahnoleeah General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

I love shopping at the Christian Sharing Center Thrift Store! I always can find delightful treasures at fair prices. The volunteers are always thrilled to help me unpack the car when I am making a donation - You guys ROCK!!

Jasmine N.1 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

I have been going to the sharing center for a couple of years now I was help with food,clothing and utilities help and the service I have recieved here is outstanding the whole staff ms brunnie,the man bill I think his name who works there bring out the food he is always happy making sure our kids have what they need the thrift store manager and hailey they are great people the whole entire staff I love going there I was just there yesterday and thank you for help us for every holiday and with the payless gift card as well for shoes always came in handy for school or holidays

Danielle Guarcello N. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

I was very impressed with my tour of The Christian Sharing Center. I am proud to now partner with them on small projects and hope to continue in them future!

Paisley2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

All around best charity in Florida. These folks work non-stop to provide real life needs to this local community. Funds raised are used here. I personally know a hard-working single Mom who was able to receive household items on a regular basis. Since that time, her 3 girls have grown and are incredibly successful adults. I have volunteered and know how much the community receives from the Sharing Center. I especially love the Oasis Center that provides showers/toiletries, a laundry, haircuts by licensed cosmetologists and other services to the homeless.

Lucila M. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

The sharing center is a place that make you feel that no matter who you are or your background you matter you feel the love I myself appreciate everything they have done for me when I needed it the most they are God send

Orly M. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

Excelente atención me dieron ayuda y para mi es mucha satisfacción que a uno le ayuden personas que ni nos conocen mil Gracias Dios los Bendiga sigan así en esta excelente Labor

Deborah T.2 Donor

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

Amazing location they work so hard to do for and help others

hikerlynn Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

When I retired from 30+ years of teaching, I needed something to help me redefine my purpose in life. I walked into the Sharing Center food pantry and stayed for six years, two mornings a week. Satisfaction, loving care, fun co-workers, and clients with stories filled my soul. I knew that I made a difference. Thank you Sharing Center.

Sarah Taylor R. General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

10/10/2019

The staff are all wonderful, so helpful and friendly. The prices are amazing too. I love shopping here.

Penny F.2 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

The Christian sharing center has helped me when I needed it the most. They have always treated me with dignity and respect. I appreciate the help they gave me while my family was homeless and in great need.

psbalencie General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

10/10/2019

The Sharing Center has great deals on a lot of items. The staff is always very friendly on the thrift side and boutique side. I usually stop in twice a week and see what is new. I also donate items on a regular basis. If you have never been you should definitely check it out.

nancydior1618 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/27/2019

My whole life I preached that a rich country like ours should never have homelessness. I am so proud to be a part of this great organization. God bless the Christian Sharing Center.

Charlotte M.4 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/25/2019

I would encourage folks to seriously consider supporting this awesome charity. I have donated and solicited donations for this center after learning more and more about how they support the community. Their mission to provide essential resources to those in need while ensuring dignity, reflecting Christian generosity, and sharing God's love is evident from the volunteers working there to the services and support they offer the community. I would encourage anyone to visit the operation in person. I promise you that you will be impressed - and inspired.

Lila H.1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/24/2019

Love the thrift store. Recommended the place to some homeless friends of mine and they were given vouchers to get some clothes

Writer Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/30/2017

Very nice very clean helpful. they help homeless people that don't have food clothes or a place .to live and dental hygiene they help people that are not homeless we give them books school uniforms and furniture like dinning room tables , bookcases ,and TV stands we take stuf that is not. Broken or stained

Theresa76 Client Served

Rating: 5

11/01/2016

I have spent many hours here and witnessed every person treated with dignity and respect. In every aspect of this organization: staff, clients and volunteers, all are interacting as equals; kindness abounds. It's beautiful to observe.

Writer Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/17/2016

This organization really cares about the community and the people they serve, regardless of their circumstances. From homeless individuals to families in need, they consistently deliver care and compassion.

2

Dennis28 Board Member

Rating: 5

01/28/2015

The Christian Sharing Center ,with Christian Dignity, helps rebuild lives that have been damaged by illness ,marital issues, financial hardships, and many other unwanted causes. It is said: that when God closes one door, He opens another, but sometimes there can be a little "Hell in the hallway", The Christian Sharing Center helps individuals and families deal with these difficult times, and Good always wins !!! Very Proud to be involved with this wonderful group !

Previous Stories
2

Board Member

Rating: 5

09/27/2013

The Sharing center is a wonderful Steward of the donated dollars that are generously given. They serve each of their clients with dignity, respect, and compassion and provide a vital service to Seminole County.
It is an honor to be associated with such a wonderful organization, that truely ,practices Christian principals on every level

2

bergstresserg Volunteer

Rating: 5

12/02/2014

In the past, I had always dropped off items at the Sharing Center. I was so impressed with how nice everyone was and how appreciative they were for any item you left that I wanted to become more involved. It is fun to work in the warehouse if you want to just drop in and work at your convenience. I started at the Sharing Center hanging and sorting clothes.

Thanksgiving they participated in the 5K Turkey Race in Sanford. We collected non-perishables before the race. It was so much fun to thank everyone and collect the items.

Everyone at the Sharing Center is so nice and they appreciate whatever you would like to do. It is nice to be a part of the Team.

2

eHumbleVolunteer Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/28/2014

I've known about the Christian Sharing Center for many years and my wife has been shopping at their thrift store twice a month for years. When we have donations, we always take them there. Beyond the thrift store, they have a food bank, provide critical financial assistance, have a medical clinic and have an "Oasis" where the homeless can shower, use a computer and get other critical services. Because 90% of their income goes to provide services to those in need, I decided to volunteer.

For 6 months now I've interacted with many of the staff and I've found all of them are genuinely empathetic and caring individuals. I have witnessed several incidents of help being given. I am proud to be volunteering, helping them with their retail sales, which in turn allows them to help more needy people.

Donata Donor

Rating: 5

08/22/2014

The Sharing Center has created a streamlined, living center to help our community.

In April, I called to donate pieces of furniture and household items. My items were picked up in the time frame which they gave me.

Their employees that pick up were courteous even though they had been picking up and unloading all day. They showed respect with my donations by handling them with care as they loaded them into the truck.

Their operations are superb. Their staff genuinely wants to help. I have been a community leader, worked in Orlando for 34 years, and the Sharing Center is #1 on my list to tell my neighbors and colleagues.

Another one of their jewels in addition to their staff and operations is they provide showers and washing machines for people in need to use! People and families in need go directly there to wash their clothes and to take a shower.

The Sharing Center is superb from the president down to the warehouse. Every interaction
I have had with them has been positive.


1

Louise B E. Donor

Rating: 5

08/19/2014

Where ever God plants us, he instructs us to grow...........from the food pantry on CR 427) across from the Longwood fire tower (my earliest memory) to the present location and all of it's programs. What a ministry! And it doesn't take much for any one to be a giver (think widow's mite) and share in the joy.

Staff, volunteers, and donors all have a compassion for all people and it shows! May God continue to bless the Christian Sharing Center.

(I really like the pictures of merchandise in the newsletter. Class act!)

Lou

1

witt Board Member

Rating: 5

08/18/2014

The Christian Sharing Center follows its mission by treating everyone who walks through its doors with respect, compassion and dignity. Working with these wonderful people helps me to remember that we are all brothers and sisters before the Lord, called to serve Him by serving each other.
Nancy Witt

1

Gailoc Board Member

Rating: 5

08/18/2014

Every time I attend a meeting or event at the Sharing Center, I am reminded why I chose to be affiliated with this mission in the first place. This organization is truly “faith” based as everything that happens at the Sharing Center has an element of trust in God’s will, with the understanding that God provides for the needs of his people in the community through the generosity of the people in the community. This is one of the most efficiently run organizations I have ever been involved with; they are good stewards of the funds and supplies they have been entrusted with.

And as a bonus, the Thrift Store is a really great place to find some really awesome pieces at bargain prices. Check it out!

2

Laurie31 Board Member

Rating: 5

08/18/2014

With the highest regard for each individual, The Christian Sharing Center offers help and hope to thousands of people every year. If The Sharing Center were a single person, it would be the friend and neighbor who is never too busy, always offers a kindness, and lifts up all who comes her way, sharing a glimpse of the Kingdom of God.

Previous Stories
2

Board Member

Rating: 5

11/20/2012

The heart of this amazing program is obvious in every facet of its outreach. Every visitor and client to The Sharing Center leave with not only economic, medical, food, shelter and other resource assistance, but also with a renewed faith in the generosity of others and encouragement in their own abilities to navigate life's challenges. The staff of The Sharing Center are wholly dedicated to the service of our community. I am always impressed by the tireless effort exhibited in the continual effort to offer vital care to those whose struggles are overwhelming them.

1

rpeterst Board Member

Rating: 5

08/15/2014

If you haven't been to the Sharing Center's newly remodeled Thrift Store, you are missing some great bargains on quality items. recently, the store had brand new designer clothes that were donated to it from a well-known department chain...at 50% OFF!

2

Don_31 Board Member

Rating: 5

08/15/2014

With over a decade of volunteer and board service, I know the mission of The Sharing Center is providing much needed help to thousands of our neighbors every year for food, clothing and assistance to meet their challenges during temporary periods of hardship. The stewardship, care and compassion of our dedicated staff and volunteers is making a great positive impact for the members of our community.

andreastonge Board Member

Rating: 5

08/15/2014

The Sharing Center is a wonderful organization that I am proud to serve as a board member. Seminole County, FL has long been known as an affluent county and a great place to live, however, that does not make us immune to the hardships that are facing many cities and counties across the country. The Sharing Center does a great job of bringing these issues to the attention of the city officials and residents. The caring staff and volunteers work tirelessly to help the underprivileged of our community and are making a real difference in the lives of the people we serve.

1

Maria93 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/06/2014

My story is so long i will leave out the big details, I v had misfortune, AND 2 years ago my step dad died , he was everything, I mean when my mom lost him i moved in to help my mom , well its been down hill from the start,i mean, no heat, no power at times, no water at times,struggle, we live out to far for the bus to pick us up, it doesnt even go to our town, A CAR would help so many people right no, I mean just in my house alone it help-4 and my friends-3 they just had to take in there grand baby, and a family house hold of6 so thats over 12people with just 1 vehicle, so i do pray everynight, been here for over 2 years i remember signing up and wondering if it was true or not, iv sewen so many happy people and im so glad for them, god bless you all, and my opinon is this site helps to get your feeling out, make new friends and family and even get a car, have some fun smile a lot!!

DTay Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/16/2013

The Sharing Center is a place that helps those in need by assisting with basic needs including food, clothing, financials and medical. While doing all this they treat each individual with respect and compassion. Everyone goes beyond what is expected of them.

EMarie4 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/03/2013

I am a teacher. I was not familiar with the Sharing Center until a student was in a desperate situation and they stepped in with very practical help that allowed him to finish high school. He is now a self supporting young man - who just needed some help to get through a very difficult time. I now support them monthly and am giving my household donations to be a part of how they make a difference in Seminole County.

1

Tonia B. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/01/2013

It is truly amazing to see all that they do at The Sharing Center and all the friendly faces that show love and compassion in everything they do. The feeling of love you get when you walk through the door is incredible and the community they serve is in much need. Thank you for being there for the families and the homeless and doing it ALL with love and dignity to the clients. :)

2

LynnR Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/27/2013

After working in the Food Pantry for several years as a volunteer, I can only say the people that I have helped by filling their grocery lists, bagged and carried the groceries to their car, have been so appreciative and so generous with their "God Bless You"s. And the homeless, they come in so hungry and tired, and we help them with their food and other needs. I wish I could do this fulltime.

John G. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/26/2013

Great organization - performs many outreaches within the community - whether helping those who are homeless or assisting those who are struggling financially. Their Oasis center is a place where the homeless can come to get basic personnel hygiene necessities that we all take for granted - a simple shower, haircuts, etc. They do food drives and something I never realized as to how important it is - they provide shoes to needy children. It is a HUGE event and is so very needed. Good, good people working to make the lives of others better.

Hegoodson Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/26/2013

During my year of volunteering, I have been inspired by the generosity of the community and by the gratitude of the recipients of the Sharing Center's assistance. While observing how others benefit from the services provided, I have been uplifted. The center helps improve many lives, including the lives of the volunteers who have the opportunity to work there.

1

Maria57 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/10/2012

I had been a volunteer with the Christian Sharing Center for a little more than a year, it is a wonderful organization and no one is turn away. The volunteers are top notch and a fun group of people to work with.

1

Joyce20 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/09/2012

I've been watching the Sharing Center serve the citizens of Seminole County for years - both effectively and efficiently. They are a truly inspirational organization and I support them 100%. The Oasis Center is a thing of beauty.

KDana Donor

Rating: 5

11/09/2012

My wife and I were introduced to the sharing center about 6 months ago and realized how important their mission is to our community. Since that time we have given cash, goods and food in support of the Sharing Center. We have also begun contributing our time as volunteers! We have never known a more more committed team of professionals.

kathy jensen Volunteer

Rating: 4

11/09/2012

The Sharing Center has a multitude of way its helps the homeless and less fortunate. They have The Oasis, where the homeless can come to shower, get haircuts, do laundry and get assistance with any agencies that may be able to offer help. they have the Thrift store, christmas shop, they do food drives, collect gift cards for shoes during the holidays. do book bag drives.

Gail S Donor

Rating: 5

11/08/2012

The Christian Sharing Center truly cares about the people in our community who are going through rough economic times and are always working so hard to help as many of these people as they possibly can. Our community is truly blessed by this caring ministry.

G Balanoff Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/08/2012

The Christian Sharing Center is a very special place. Our church has supported their cause for 14 years now, and we are always touched by the caring and generous spirit of those involved. They help in so many ways, from clothes and food to helping with utility payments and even rent for those in danger of losing their place to live. Their depth of support has helped so many people who have nowhere else to turn. My family has been pleased to support all of their efforts, because they truly make the impossible into a reality. Gary B.

Denise T. Donor

Rating: 5

11/07/2012

The Sharing Center is a wonderful organization. They have helped so many people in so many different capacities. I have referred several people in desperate need and The Sharing Center was able to help them ease their burden. Regardless of your need The Sharing Center is always there.

Owen J. Board Member

Rating: 5

11/07/2012

I have worked with charity & other service organizations and served on the boards and boards of trustees for a number of these in the U.S. and abroad. In my estimation none is run more effectively and as compassionately as the Christian Sharing Center in Seminole County, FL. About 90% of all income goes directly to those the Center serves. Especially under current economic conditions, this is exemplary. The Center far exceeds the expectations of most of its clients and networks with Churches and other entities in the community with very impressive effect to service clients' emergency food, clothing, shelter, job search and medical needs. By any standard the Center is a remarkable charitable institution that sets the standard for any organization of its type in Central Florida. I am extremely proud to be associated with this exemplary organization.

freedom32750 Client Served

Rating: 5

11/07/2012

The Sharing Center is a beautiful example of a nonprofit that really cares about the people they serve. I have recently had some very difficult times in my life (unemployment & health issues). The Sharing Center provided me with food, clothing, and some finacial help. The Center also has a beautiful place in the plaza where they are located called "The Oasis". At The Oasis homeless men, women & children (families) are able to get a fresh shower, brush their teeth, get a hair cut and get their laundry washed and dried and all of this is for free. The Sharing Center staff and volunteers have treated me with kindness, love and caring. They always make me feel that I still have dignity even during my difficult times. Jack

Brunnie Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/07/2012

I have volunteer at the Sanford office and every staff and volunteer there are so nice to the clients. They go out of their way to assist people. I see how the staff makes the clients feel welcome and comfortable in the time of need. I love volunteering and seeing that where I work I know people are leaving the Sharing Center with hope.

1

paul73 Board Member

Rating: 5

11/07/2012

I have supported this charity since it began in 1986. I have watched it grow from a living room to an entire plaza! From a $50,000 budget to $3,000,000.00. In the last 10 years they have averaged 31,000 people a year that they help approximately 200 a day! Over $750,000 in food was given out last year alone. They have added a Homeless center that gives showers, laundry, haircuts and computers for those that are homeless. They are making a huge impact in Seminole County. Check out their web site at thesharingcenter.org.

1

valeriefosburgh Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/19/2012

I have been volunteering with the Sharing Center since 2006, and this is a wonderful organization helping friends and neighbors in our community. I have referred many people to them, and no one has been turned away in their request for assistance. The staff and counselors are caring and genuine, and they do all they can to help the clients. They run a tight ship, with 92 cents of every dollar contributed spent on programs! I love this organization!

Review from Guidestar

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