Juggling four kids, a golden retriever, a resale shop, and a whole gaggle of volunteers is just a small peek into the life of Melissa Slorf, the director of Grand Haven re:MADE.
Fueled by her passion for sustainability and community, Melissa launched the first Michigan chapter of re:MADE in 2021, creating a space where second chances thrive.
At first glance, Grand Haven re:MADE might seem like just another thrift shop, but step inside and you’ll quickly see it’s so much more. The shop is filled with upcycled treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces, each with a story waiting to be told. Behind the scenes, a team of local artists, volunteers, and makers passionately work to keep items from ending up in a landfill, giving new life to things that might otherwise be discarded.
When Melissa’s not at the shop, you might find her quoting Gilmore Girls or on the hunt for hidden gems in the wild—items she can help transform. Surprisingly, her own home isn’t filled with these discoveries. Instead, her decor is mostly heirlooms from her grandmother.
Though Melissa leads the charge, re:MADE runs entirely on the generosity of its volunteers, patrons, and donors. Melissa’s love for pouring into people is evident not just in the way she cares for her volunteers—many whom have become some of her best friends—but also through her many speaking engagements along the lakeshore at other nonprofits like the Humanity For Prisoners and Kids Belong.
If you find yourself in Grand Haven, a visit to this woman-run nonprofit is a must. You’ll discover more than just hidden gems—you’ll hear the stories behind them, and maybe even leave with a tale of your own.
