Discovery Shop History

More than a shop. A movement. A mission. A legacy.

The American Cancer Society Discovery Shop is more than a thrift store-it's a local community with a purpose. Whether you shop, donate, or volunteer, every action supports the fight against cancer. Our store is a place where people come together, find unique treasures, and make a real impact. For many, it's more than just a shop-it's their happy place.

Where It All Began

Over 60 years ago, an American Cancer Society volunteer named Denise Noel had a bold idea: What if a thrift store could be more than just secondhand? What if it offered high-quality, beautifully curated merchandise and used our net proceeds to fight cancer?

In 1965, Denise opened the very first American Cancer Society Thrift Store in the San Fernando Valley, California. It was a radical concept at the time - quality and thrift didn't usually go hand in hand. But thanks to her vision, passion, and determination, that little shop started something big.

The idea quickly caught on. Volunteers across California stepped up, opened stores, and gave each location a personality of its own with creative names like "Nice Twice" and "Just a Second." In the 1980s, a new name took hold: Discovery Shop. With it came a clear identity, resale with purpose, community at heart, and quality always.
Since that first shop opened, Discovery Shops have raised more than $372 million to support the American Cancer Society's mission. Today, there are 59 shops nationally. While each has its own local flavor, all are united by one common goal: to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families.

Where Every Item Has Meaning

That vintage jacket you just found? It's helping a patient get access to treatment. The armchair you're eyeing? It's funding research that could lead to the next big breakthrough. The time you spend volunteering? It's comforting someone in their toughest moment.

Every item in our shops carries a story and a purpose. That's what makes Discovery Shop so special. We're not just selling goods; we're creating hope.

Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind piece or supporting a meaningful cause, Discovery Shop is more than just a store it's a movement for impact, style, and sustainability.

Learn about all of our programs

One Million Strong and Growing

Every year, more than a million people walk through our doors. They come from every walk of life, every background, every story. And they all leave knowing they're part of something bigger.

Together, we're supporting survivors.
We're fueling breakthroughs.
We're fighting cancer one donation, one purchase, one volunteer hour at a time.

We are the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop and we thank you for 60 years of support.

We invite you to shop, donate, or volunteer because every action helps us move closer to a world without cancer.