Lee: Leading with Heart at Hope Family Thrift

Meet Lee! Lee Adams has been part of Hope Family Thrift’s team for six years, but his journey to Store Manager began long before then. As a member of Grace Covenant Church, Lee became familiar with the Austin Disaster Relief Network (ADRN) when the organization worked out of the church offices in the early days of the network.

“I had always wanted to be a part of what they do here,” says Lee. When a position in furniture acquisition opened up at Hope Family Thrift, Lee took it and then worked his way up to Store Manager.

For Lee, it’s about the people and the purpose behind the work. “We’re a lot like family here. We step on each other’s toes sometimes, but we’re quick to forgive,” he shares. “I also love the mission. All of our survivors get to come in and shop for free. I love my customers.”

One standout moment at the store for Lee was seeing a high-end Italian bedroom suite come through the store—an unexpected find worth tens of thousands of dollars. But it wasn’t just about the value of the furniture; it was about who received it. “It ended up going to a survivor, and it truly blessed them. They were so happy to get it. Their eyes just lit up when they got it.”

For Lee, Hope Family Thrift is more than just a thrift store. It’s a place of safety and connection. Whether it’s high school students coming in to do their homework, or customers in need seeking prayer and support, Lee wants everyone to feel welcome. 

“We don’t want to be just a place where you can come in and shop. We want to get to know who you are and if we can help. This is a place you can come and be safe, be heard, be known. We will lift you before a healing God and pray for you,” says Lee.

Lee’s commitment to both the community and his faith is clear in everything he does. He doesn’t see his job as just managing a store; it’s also about building relationships and offering a place of hope. “I just love talking to my folks,” Lee says.

Through his leadership and dedication, Lee makes Hope Family Thrift a place where people find more than just great deals—they find compassion, connection, and care.