There’s a great thrill to thrifting. The hunt for the perfect item, the anticipation building as you stroll the aisles, the rush when the hidden gem emerges from a corner of the store. It’s a beloved experience by many, and at Second Life, an upscale thrift store in Avondale Estates, thrifting takes on a special cause – to give homeless pets a second chance at life (and love).
“We offer consignment quality shopping at thrift store prices and our proceeds benefit animal charities,” explains Tanya Mahrous, who, alongside her husband Toby Tobias, co-founded the sprawling storefront on North Clarendon. Inspired by their rescued Dalmatian, Lucky, who was deemed “unadoptable” and days away from euthanasia, the couple opened Second Life with the mission of making a difference for rescue animals like him.
Don’t write off Second Life as a small local business making the occasional donation to look altruistic- their contributions are making a real difference. “We have donated over $2.7 million in grants to more than 90 animal charities in the Atlanta area and Georgia since opening our doors in 2011. We are excited to celebrate our 15th anniversary in January and are on track to achieve the $3 million milestone early next year,” Toby explains.
“We provide grants to numerous organizations because there are so many areas of need when it comes to helping animals,” says Tanya. Pet adoption is a big focus, but fostering, outreach, and education are also very important in reducing pet overpopulation, while spay/neuter efforts allow people to be a part of the solution in their communities.
“Customers often tell us this is their happy place,” reflects Tanya, “they love shopping here and finding unique items, and they love helping animals too.” Tanya and Toby are quick to point out that their dedicated team is the reason for Second Life’s success. “Although Second Life was our idea, our amazing team is the reason many supporters tell us Second Life is their favorite store,” explains Toby.
Want to help? Donate gently used items, volunteer your time, or simply shop. Every purchase helps give homeless pets a second chance at life. Lucky’s legacy lives on in all they do. Animals do change lives; Lucky changed theirs.