Working with At-Risk Youths
Christ-centered community organization dedicated to empowering the spiritual, educational, and vocational
development of at-risk youth and their families.
Inner City Thrift Store provides clothing, furniture, household items and more for families with little or limited income, at the most affordable price in town.
Be sure to visit our Thrift Store located at 608 SHELBY STREET, 457-2625
Keywords: christian ministry, at risk youths, thrift store, summer camp, inner city,
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Over 30 years
What is your primary product or service?
We strive to serve and educate chidldren and families living in the inner city.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Upon returing from Viet Nam in the late 1960's, Lytle Thomas was shocked to find the same look of dispair in the eyes of children living in inner city housing as he had seen while overseas. He and his wife, Sandra, started serving these children in the early 1970's. A board of directors was established in 1979.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
NICM is the ONLY organization in Nashville to have served and developed relationships with children and families living in poverty througout Davidson County.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
Currently we operate from one office building, 1201 Joseph Avenue, a bus garage, 185 Anthes Drive, and several learning centers. We also use offices and activity space in the Vultee Church of Christ building. It is our dream to build a larger facility that will be centrally located an allow us to provide various types of services (parenting classes, after school classes, anger management classes, counseling, etc) under one roof.
Provide detailed directions to your location
If you are driving from downtown, take I65 N. Exit at Trinity Lane and turn Right at the bottom of the ramp. At the 2nd light, turn Right on to Dickerson Road. When you Donaldson (at the light), turn Left. Take the 1st Right on to Joseph Ave. Our offices are located on the left at the next intersection.
What type of payments do you accept?
NICM accepts free will donations.
Which areas do you service?
NICM serves all the public housing projects in Davidson County, TN.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
The director of NICM is Lytle Thomas, and the Chairman of Board is Buck Dozier.
What are your hours of operation?
NICM staff members are always ready to serve, but our office is open Monday - Thursday 9AM to 4PM. Buses pick up children, take them to learing centers, and return them home on Monday and Tuesday nights between 6 and 8:30 PM. Conquerors (students committed to live positive lives) meet on Wednesday nights from 6 - 8 PM and at various times on the weekend.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
You are making a positive difference in the lives of those you serve
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
There are toooooo many to quote, but we strive to serve Christ by following his words "Whatever you do to the least of these, my brothers, you do to me."