This holiday season, shopping is a must. Choosing to shop at consignment stores recycles used items and can give back to an important local cause as well.

Pass It On in Raleigh and Fuquay-Varina is a thrift store supporting InterAct of Wake County. Ninety cents of every dollar spent at the store goes directly to InterAct’s programs, such as crisis intervention services, counseling, education and court advocacy, aiming to end the cycle of domestic and sexual violence.

“This is not your grandmother’s thrift store,” said Virginia Schaible, store manager. “We pride ourselves on having current and upscale fashion. We work really hard to pattern the store after an upscale boutique.”

The store operates 100% on donations. A team of volunteers sifts through the apparel, checking for timeliness, quality and condition. Racks are restocked daily, with plenty of high-end brands to be found. Lilly Pulitzer, J. Crew, Michael Kors, Kate Spade and St. John make regular appearances.

Modeled after an upscale boutique, Pass It On offers on-trend clothing, shoes and gift items. Ninety cents of every dollar spend goes directly to Interact of Wake County.

“Everything is categorized and sized,” Schaible said. “It really separates us from other thrift stores.”

With prices like $3 for accessories, $6 for blouses and $10 for suits, shopping at Pass It On resembles a treasure hunt with endless possibilities.

“For $10, someone can get their foot in the door with a new suit for a job interview,” Schaible said. “I’m really excited about that.”

And, clients of InterAct can shop for free.

“Women can come into the boutique, and they can feel very empowered picking out outfits that are on trend,” Schaible said.

During the holidays, Pass It On also sells a variety of gift items, such as candles, artisan soaps, essential oils and home decor.

Schaible’s previous work in retail ignited her passion to transform InterAct’s charity thrift store into an upscale boutique that is accessible to everyone.

“Everything is beautifully displayed. It’s a place women can come in and just be happy. It’s so much more fulfilling to work, not for a CEO, but for the clients of Interact.”