Frequently Asked Questions
What is ReSource?
ReSource is a 501c3 non-profit that is operated by the Center for ReSource Conservation. We provide the community with a unique opportunity to buy or donate reusable building materials. Our stores make it easy to make smart environmental decisions, save money and find many beautiful, functional and historical items that otherwise would be in a landfill.
What is the Center for ReSource Conservation?
The CRC is a non-profit headquartered in downtown Boulder Colorado. The CRC is committed to leading residents, businesses and municipalities to a more sustainable future. The CRC was founded in 1976 and implements its conservancy programs through four distinct and separate divisions that focus on Water, Waste, Energy, and Green Building. To learn more about other CRC programs, visit them on the web at www.conservationcenter.org
How are ReSource and CRC related?
ReSource was founded by the Center for ReSource Conservation in 1996. ReSource is considered a division of the CRC.
Where is ReSource located?
There are two ReSource locations, one in Boulder and one in Ft. Collins. For a map and address for Boulder click here, and Ft. Collins click here.
When is ReSource open?
For our Boulder site hours click here and for our Ft. Collins site hours click here.
How does ReSource work?
Similar to a clothing thrift store, ReSource accepts donations of reusable building materials and then resells them to the public at great prices. Everything at ReSource has been donated by homeowners, businesses, contractors or deconstruction experts. Because ReSource is a 501c3 non-profit, donations are tax-deductible.
How do I buy something from ReSource?
Shopping at ReSource is easy. To get started you can either:
- Bring your measurements from home and browse through the inventory to find what you’re looking for OR,
- Drop by, browse, and find what you didn't know you needed.
Most items already have a price on them and some items, like lumber, have a set price per amount or length. Check out our price list for an idea of what things typically cost. Prices are non-negotiable.
Locate a staff member and pay by cash, check, Visa or Master Card. After that, we can help get your vehicle loaded.
We can place a 48 hour hold on merchandise for you in case you forgot your measurements or need to call your "friend with a truck". All sold material must be picked up within 48 hours or will be resold. We'll also deliver your new-to-you materials to their new home for a nominal fee.
Can I call the store and have a staff member find what I’m looking for?
Not always. We can give you a general idea of whether or not we have certain things in stock, but because of the fast-paced nature of our business, the hourly change in inventory and the range of quality in our stock, shopping over the phone for customers is difficult and time consuming. We always recommend coming by in person or checking our inventory online.
Will you refund my money if something I bought doesn't work out?
No. We do not refund money. Please thoroughly check the condition of your items and carefully measure your needs before making a purchase. If you're not sure something will work for you, ask us to put a hold on it while you check before purchasing. Items can be held for up to 48 hours.
We do offer exchanges and yard credit within 30 days of purchase. A receipt is required to make this happen.
Why is the good stuff is always sold when I get here?
Our inventory changes by the hour.
If you want to be the first to know about materials coming in to ReSource,
you can sign up to receive our exclusive ReSource Material Alerts. They will be delivered right to your inbox every week by becoming a ReSource member. For more information about membership, click here.
Where does the money I spend at ReSource go?
Because ReSource, and The Center for ReSource Conservation, is a non-profit organization, proceeds from ReSource sales go directly back towards supporting our work. Your money helps pay for our operational expenses (such as paying employees, truck maintenance and repairs, and site improvements) and is also invested in creating new resource conservation programs and services. Sign up to receive the CRC's e-newsletter for a monthly look at how your support is being put to use.
How do I donate money to ReSource?
You can make a financial contribution to ReSource online here. The contribution will officially be made to ReSource's parent organization, the Center for ReSource Conservation via its partnership with Blacktie Colorado, but if you tell us that you want it to go to ReSource in the comments field, it will.
If you don't want to donate online, you can download a printable form and mail it in. You can also make a contribution anytime you visit one of our sites. If you donate $50 or more, you become an official ReSource/CRC member and receive a bunch of benefits. Learn more about that here.
How do I donate materials to ReSource?
To donate your gently used building materials, bring them to the clearly marked Donation Area at your local ReSource. Donations are accepted up until one hour before closing.
All donations are tax-deductible. Make sure you ask for a donation receipt at the time of drop off. We do not give donation receipts out at any other time. We also offer a pick-up service for a nominal fee.
What do you accept?
For a general idea take a look at our donation guidelines.
If you want to donate an item that is not on our list, it is a good idea to call the store in advance to see if we are interested. You can always stop by with items without calling first, but be aware that our staff reserves the right to refuse materials at anytime based on condition and/or currently inventory.
Why do you turn materials away?
Our ultimate goal is to divert as many materials as we possibly can from the landfill. The best way for us to do this is to efficiently maintain a constant flow of reusable materials from one user to another; away from the landfill and back into the community to be used again.
We work very hard to avoid ending up as a storage space for unwanted materials. With ten years of experience we know what people will buy from us and what will sit in our inventory for years and years. Because of our limited space, an item that doesn't sell is only keeping us from diverting more material from the landfill.
As a result, we have to be selective about the condition of materials that we accept. We do not accept materials that are broken, rotted, or slightly damaged. We also sometimes have to refuse materials if we have an overstock at the time.
Check our web site to see a list of items we are currently not taking: click here.
What is deconstruction?
Deconstruction involves carefully dismantling a building and salvaging the parts that can be re-used. Material coming from deconstruction often includes, but is not limited to, lumber, doors, windows, cabinetry and hardwood flooring. By choosing deconstruction, homeowners and builders can save precious natural resources and help divert material from the landfill.
Does ReSource rent or own its buildings in Boulder ?
We do not own the buildings at 6400 Arapahoe in Boulder. The City of Boulder purchased the site in 2009 to house Zero-Waste diversion programs. ReSource rents their share of the land for $1 per month.
Does ReSource rent or own its buildings in Ft. Collins?
We own the property at 1501 N. College Avenue in Ft. Collins.
Where does ReSource get its funding?
We are a 501c3 non-profit organization and, like any healthy non-profit, we rely on a variety of sources for funding.
Individual Donors:
We have a base of individual donors, or people who donate money to us because they believe in what we do. For info about becoming an individual donor click here.
Program Grants:
ReSource receives funding through the grant writing process. This is the least reliable but most exciting aspect of the work we do. Funding organizations include: Boulder County Resource Conservation Division, Environmental Protection Agency, independent foundations, and state and municipal organizations.
Business and Organization Sponsors:
We are supported by a number of local and national businesses. Some support us with general donations or choose to support one of our annual events. To find out how to become a Sponsor click here.
Do you need volunteers?
Yes! We are always interested in working with individuals who want to help make a difference. Opportunities range from spending a few hours each week cleaning and organizing our inventory to marketing to serving on an event planning committee. Check out our volunteer section for more information: click here.
Can I bring my class to ReSource for a tour?
Yes, we conduct over 35 school tours a year and host schools for their community service projects and summer camps. For more information contact the ReSource Store Manager.
How many people work for ReSource?
ReSource employs around 8 full time and 4 part time staff.
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