By Meghan Streit
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

It’s a well-known principle of home design and décor that one person’s trash can be another’s treasure. That brass lamp on your end table that you’ve grown tired of just might be the accent piece your neighbor has been searching for.

At Sedgebrook, residents and employees as well as their families can search for  hidden gems at the community’s own antique and flea market. The Treasure Chest collects donated jewelry, artwork, mirrors, vases, furniture, collectibles, and other household items.

A team of about 20 resident volunteers staff the Treasure Chest, which is open three days each week. The group is planning to move the shop to a higher-traffic location, and will be open four days a week.

“I have basically enjoyed it, although it takes a lot of time,” says chairwoman Diane Breckenridge.

She says activities like the Treasure Chest are a great way to get to know people at Sedgebrook.

“I’ve met so many friends here, and I think that’s one of the first things that almost everybody here says [when they move to Sedgebrook],” Breckenridge says.

The on-site resale shop is an easy and convenient way for Sedgebrook residents looking to downsize to get rid of unwanted house wares. They do they not have to travel far to drop off the goods, and they have the peace of mind of knowing their donation is going to a worthwhile cause.

Proceeds from sales go to Sedgebrook’s Benevolent Care Fund, which provides assistance on those rare occasions when a community member needs financial help.

Sedgebrook’s Treasure Chest has raised about $2,500 so far this year.