The Heart of Vollies Op Shop
A Story of Community, Compassion, and Change
___________________________________________________________________________________
In the small town of Manjimup Western Australia, a local business is doing more than just selling second-hand items—it’s changing lives. Vollies Op Shop, started by Adam Purdy, has become a beacon of hope for those in need, offering not only affordable goods but also much-needed support to the community. Through the highs and lows of running the shop, Adam has built something truly special, focused on self-reliance, compassion, and empowerment.
A Personal Journey Towards Purpose
Adam’s journey to opening Vollies Op Shop is not your typical business story. Raised in Manjimup, Adam’s early life was marked by some difficult choices that eventually led him to move to Queensland in search of a fresh start. But the pull of home was strong. After several trips back and forth, he finally landed where he was meant to be—back in Manjimup.
“I’m a very goal-focused person, very compassionate, very empathetic for others,” Adam says. “I’m also a bush-loving guy. That’s about all I can say about myself.” But what stands out in Adam’s story is his desire to help, his empathy for others, and the courage to take action when he saw systemic issues that needed addressing.
The Inspiration Behind Vollies Op Shop
Adam's experience with government bureaucracy and the nonprofit sector drove him to create a place where people weren’t treated like statistics or profit margins. “After COVID, it just proved everything I was thinking to be accurate,” he reflects. “The not-for-profits were focused on generating as much income as possible, while the people who really needed help were left behind. I saw that something had to change.”
That realization led Adam to open Vollies Op Shop, a place where donations could support the community directly without the overhead costs and high profits typical of many larger charities. His goal was simple yet profound: to provide assistance for those affected by COVID and other hardships, without adding them to a profit-driven system.
A Day in the Life at Vollies Op Shop
Running an op shop involves much more than just sorting through donations. Adam explains that a typical day includes receiving items from various sources: “We get donations from the general public, from deceased estates, and even evicted tenants.” Each item has to be researched to determine its value, and then it’s processed for sale.
“Every cent we make goes back into the community,” he adds. The shop not only covers its own operational costs but also buys fresh produce directly from local farmers to give to customers for free. It's this deep-rooted commitment to the community that sets Vollies Op Shop apart from other operations.
Overcoming Challenges
As Adam reflects on the journey of running the shop, he notes one of the biggest challenges: differentiating his store from larger, profit-driven non-profits. "We've been labelled as thieves, crooks, and dishonest by every not-for-profit organization in this town,” he says. “But we’ve managed to keep our head above water.”
Despite the criticism and setbacks, Adam’s commitment to running a store that prioritizes people over profits has gained significant traction. “It’s been accepted by a large portion of the community,” he says, noting that they’ve been able to reinvest a large portion of their earnings back into local initiatives.
The Future of Vollies Op Shop
Looking ahead, Adam envisions expansion—not just for the shop, but for the idea that community-driven businesses can make a lasting impact. “I see Vollies Op Shop growing to inspire local communities to get up and look after each other, instead of looking for government handouts in the forms of grants,” he shares.
The potential for growth is clear. Adam hopes to open more locations in nearby towns like Bridgetown and Busselton, although he remains focused on the Manjimup area for now.
The Role of Volunteers and Social Impact
For Adam, Vollies Op Shop isn’t just about selling goods—it’s about creating opportunities. “I’ve always wanted to open the doors for people who can’t get a job elsewhere, whether due to physical or mental disabilities,” he explains. “We currently have four volunteers who are physically and mentally disabled, and they make a huge impact here.”
The shop is also committed to supporting local students, providing a space for school programs and encouraging young people to get involved. For Adam, this is one of the most rewarding aspects of the business. “Being able to help these kids get a sense of life after school is a highlight for me,” he says.
A Personal and Humble Commitment
Running Vollies Op Shop has changed Adam in many ways. “Socially, I don’t have a social life,” he admits. “I keep to myself. But personally, I feel like I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing in life. I’ve found my niche, my purpose.”
Despite the sacrifices, Adam’s humble approach to running the shop is evident in everything he does. "I took a lot from this town in my adolescent years, it's a good feeling to be giving back." “I don’t earn money from the running of the store, I am signed up as a volunteer like the rest of the team and I have very little to my name and the keeps me humble,” he reflects.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
In the years to come, Adam hopes to use the store’s success to relieve the burden on local families. “I’d love to support schools with their education funding and camps,” he says. “Parents are struggling to keep up with the rising costs, and I want to help take that pressure off.”
Advice for Aspiring Community Entrepreneurs
Finally, Adam has some advice for anyone looking to follow in his footsteps: “Give it a go. We are only subject to our own limitations, not those opposed us by others,” he encourages. “It feels great to help the community on a day-to-day basis.
In the end, Vollies Op Shop isn’t just a business—it’s a community movement, driven by compassion, empathy, and a strong desire to make the world a better place for everyone.