Meet the People Behind the Mission
Veterans Thrift is powered by dedicated leaders who understand the challenges veterans face—because many of them have served themselves. Our team combines military experience, nonprofit expertise, and deep community connections to ensure every veteran in Lake Havasu gets the support they deserve.
Leadership Team
Our Dedicated Leaders
Sarah Mitchell
Executive Director
Sarah brings 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, having previously served with Disabled American Veterans and the VA Community Outreach Program. As a veteran spouse, she understands firsthand the challenges military families face and is passionate about creating sustainable support systems for Lake Havasu's veteran community.
James Rodriguez
Board President & Founder
Jim founded Veterans Thrift in 2015 after retiring from 22 years in the US Air Force. His mission has always been clear: offer Lake Havasu veterans a supportive space free of barriers or judgment. Through steady dedication, he has grown the nonprofit from a small shop into a trusted resource. Today continues to evolve with local help.
Linda Thompson
Operations Manager
A Lake Havasu native and Army veteran, Linda oversees daily operations and volunteer efforts with steady commitment. Her strong organizational skills and deep community ties have enabled Veterans Thrift to expand vital partnerships with more than thirty local businesses and service groups across region! This support continues to grow!!
Dr. Marcus Chen
Board Member & Medical Advisor
Dr. Chen, a retired Navy physician, supports our medical equipment program by offering expert guidance and careful review. He helps ensure that veterans receive appropriate devices, clear instructions, and referrals to additional healthcare resources whenever specialized care is required.His service experience strengthens our mission.
Partnerships & Affiliations
We're Stronger Together
These partnerships allow us to connect veterans with comprehensive support beyond what we can provide alone—from healthcare and housing to employment and emergency services.
Veteran Services
Mohave County Veterans Services
American Legion Post 75
VFW Post 9401
Mohave Community College Veteran Services
Healthcare Partners
Western Arizona Regional Medical Center
Lake Havasu Veterans Health Clinic
Arizona Department of Veterans Services
Community Organizations
Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce
Lake Havasu Food Bank
Havasu Regional Homeless Coalition
Mohave County Social Services
Corporate Supporters
Desert Hills Bank
Southwest Medical Associates
Havasu Hardware & Supply
Lake Havasu Marine Association
Arizona Public Service Company
Join Our Mission
Volunteer With Us
Veterans Thrift invites you to join our team where it's all about our vets! Whatever your skill set may be, we have a place for you in our volunteer family.
Why Volunteer?
Make direct impact helping veterans face-to-face
Meet incredible people including fellow veterans and community supporters
Flexible schedules that fit your life
Find meaningful purpose through service
Volunteer Opportunities
Store Operations
Help run our thrift store, assist customers, process sales, and organize inventory. Typical shifts are 3-4 hours.
Donation Processing
Sort incoming donations, test equipment, clean and prepare items for sale. Flexible scheduling available.
Event Support
Help with fundraisers, donation drives, and veteran appreciation events. Ideal for volunteers who can commit to specific event dates.
Equipment Delivery
Deliver medical equipment and furniture to veterans' homes. Requires reliable vehicle and ability to lift items.
Administrative Support
Data entry, donor acknowledgments, social media posting, and general office tasks.
Time Commitment
Flexible—whether you can spare two hours a week or two days a month, we'll find a role that fits.
Corporate & Community Partnerships
Partner With Us
Partner with Veterans Thrift to support Lake Havasu veterans while engaging your team and building community goodwill.
Event Sponsorships
Sponsor our Flag Day Ceremony, Veterans Appreciation Dinner, or annual fundraising events.
Donation Drives
Host a donation drive at your workplace. We provide collection boxes and promotional materials.
Corporate Giving
Establish ongoing partnership through payroll giving, matching gifts, or quarterly contributions.
In-Kind Donations
Contribute professional services, equipment, or supplies.
Employee Volunteer Days
Organize team volunteer days. We'll coordinate meaningful projects that build camaraderie.
Current Partners: Lake Havasu Marine Association | Desert Hills Bank | Southwest Medical Associates | Havasu Hardware & Supply | Arizona Public Service Company
Interested in partnering? Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities
Transparency & Accountability
We Believe in Complete Transparency
Our commitment to our community and donors means being open about how we operate and where your support goes.
Supporting Lake Havasu veterans and their families with essential services, medical equipment, and compassionate care since 2015.