The People Behind The MissioN
Driven by faith. Guided by purpose.
The ROSE TLC is made possible by a team of leaders, staff, and volunteers who believe deeply that no one should face life's hardest moments alone. Meet the people who make it all happen.
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." — Proverbs 27:17
Our Leadership
The people guiding our mission
Our Board brings together diverse experience — from business and ministry to education and the arts — all united by a shared calling to serve the most vulnerable in our community.
Jonathan Larson
president of the board
As President of the Board, Jonathan brings leadership shaped by years in digital transformation across healthcare, logistics, and social impact. At The Rose TLC, he’s driven to use his experience to serve those often overlooked and to help the organization grow its reach and impact.
Donna Chubb
TREASURER
As Treasurer, Donna brings the heart of an educator and a lifetime of global experience to The Rose TLC. After the loss of her husband, she found renewed purpose in serving alongside John and Ruth. Volunteering has given her deep joy, a new family, and a mission she loves in retirement.
Lisa Brannock
SECRETARY
As Secretary of the Board, Lisa Brannock brings business insight and heart to The Rose TLC. A former Senior BOA at Edward Jones, she stepped back to focus on family and service. Now managing our Etsy shops, she finds renewed purpose using her skills to uplift others and strengthen community.
Christie Stevens
BOARD MEMBER
As a Board Member, Christie brings years of ministry and chaplaincy experience to The Rose TLC. Her friendship with Ruth spans decades, and now living in South Carolina, she finds joy and purpose in supporting the mission to serve others with love and dignity.
Steve Kegg
BOARD MEMBER
As a Board Member, Steve brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to The ROSE TLC. With a background in music and engineering, and 37 years at The Hoover Co., he now finds joy serving in the thrift store and supporting the mission with heart and humility.
Our TEAM
The Hands and Hearts Behind The ROSE TLC
From our founders to our newest team members, every person on our staff is here because they believe in this mission personally — not just professionally.
John & Ruth Featherstone
Executive Directors
& Co-Founders
John and Ruth Featherstone are the visionary founders behind The ROSE TLC and The ROSE Thrift and MORE! With a shared passion for uplifting the most vulnerable, they launched this unique nonprofit and thrift store to serve widows, widowers, and young adults aging out of foster care—locally and beyond.
Carol Poppe
Sales Assistant
Originally from Massachusetts, Carol has lived in North Carolina for 30 years and has a passion for serving others. She previously worked with John and Ruth in outreach and joined The ROSE TLC in 2023. A creative spirit and gardener, Carol also displays her artwork in the store. She’s honored to help create a welcoming space for every customer.
Stephanie Brown
Sales Assistant
Stephanie is a devoted wife and mother of two, originally from Pittsburgh. She loves organizing, reading, and watercolor painting. Living at Sipes Orchard Home with her husband, Jamie, has strengthened their faith and commitment to serving families. Stephanie joined The ROSE TLC through a love for thrifting, and now finds deep joy in helping foster families, widows, and orphans.
Danyelle Ehman
Sales Assistant
Danyelle is a retired special education teacher who recently joined The Rose Thrift and More. She is excited to be part of such a meaningful mission and to work alongside an incredible team of employees and volunteers. Outside of her time at The Rose, Danyelle enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, as well as with their rescue pups. She loves outdoor activities, game nights, music, and writing.
Donna McNulty
Sales Assistant
Originally from New Jersey, she spent 30 years in South Florida building a successful sales career and traveling internationally, eventually reaching an executive-level role. Drawn to more meaningful work, she moved to North Carolina 18 years ago and has spent the past decade supporting the recovery community. Today, she serves with The ROSE, helping individuals find hope, purpose, and healing. Grounded in faith, family, and a love for animals, she brings heart, leadership, and authenticity to every opportunity to uplift others.
stories of impact
This is what happens when a community comes together
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
Sarah M.
Widow supported by our programs
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
Thomas R.
Volunteer for 3 years
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
Pastor James W.
Local church partner
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Eleanor J.
Senior served by our practical help team
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Eleanor J.
Senior served by our practical help team
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Michelle T.
Single mother and thrift store customer
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
The Martinez Family
Community participants
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
stories of impact
This is what happens when a community comes together
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
Sarah M.
Widow supported by our programs
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
Thomas R.
Volunteer for 3 years
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
Pastor James W.
Local church partner
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Eleanor J.
Senior served by our practical help team
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Eleanor J.
Senior served by our practical help team
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Michelle T.
Single mother and thrift store customer
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
The Martinez Family
Community participants
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
Reaching Out, Serving Everyone Through Love & Communications.
Supporting widows, orphans and vulnerable families since 2010.
get involved
I Need Help
Request Assistance
Community Support
I Want to Help
Donate Items
Volunteer
Partner With Us
hours
Thrift Store Hours
Tuesday–Saturday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Donation Hours
Tuesday–Saturday:
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed
Sunday & Monday
get involved
I Need Help
I Want to Help
contact us
During Hours 828-855-2944
After Hours 828-970-1389
visit us
P.O. Box 2812, Hickory, NC 28603
108 South Center Street Hickory, NC 28602
Get Directions ↗
hours
Thrift Store Hours
Tuesday–Saturday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Donation Hours
Tuesday–Saturday:
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed
Sunday & Monday
you're invited
Join The Family & Make A Difference
The ROSE TLC and The ROSE Thrift and MORE! are powered by an incredible team of volunteers. From greeting customers and preparing donations to assisting with displays, landscaping, cashiering, and even woodworking—there’s a place for every gift and willing heart. With over 40 active volunteers, we’re always looking to grow our Volunteer “Family.” We care deeply about one another and have fun doing meaningful work that blesses our community. If you’re looking for purpose, connection, and a way to give back—we’d love to have you with us.
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
Thomas R.
Volunteer for 3 years
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
Pastor James W.
Local church partner
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Eleanor J.
Senior served by our practical help team
After losing my husband, I didn’t know where to turn. The ROSE TLC provided not just practical help, but a community that made me feel less alone.
The volunteers at ROSE TLC treated me with such dignity. They didn’t just fix things in my home, they restored my hope.
Finding affordable clothing for my growing children at the thrift store has been a blessing. Knowing it supports such a worthy cause makes it even better.
Volunteering with ROSE TLC has been the most rewarding experience. The relationships I’ve built with the widows I visit weekly have enriched my life immeasurably.
As a pastor, I’ve seen how ROSE TLC fills crucial gaps in serving our community’s most vulnerable. Their work is truly the hands and feet of Christ.
When we moved here, we knew no one. The community dinners hosted by ROSE TLC helped us make friends and find our place in this town.
Jonathan Larson
President Of The Board
As President of the Board, Jonathan brings leadership shaped by years in digital transformation across healthcare, logistics, and social impact. At The Rose TLC, he’s driven to use his experience to serve those often overlooked and to help the organization grow its reach and impact.
Donna Chubb
Treasurer
As Treasurer, Donna brings the heart of an educator and a lifetime of global experience to The Rose TLC. After the loss of her husband, she found renewed purpose in serving alongside John and Ruth. Volunteering has given her deep joy, a new family, and a mission she loves in retirement.
Lisa Brannock
Secretary
As Secretary of the Board, Lisa Brannock brings business insight and heart to The Rose TLC. A former Senior BOA at Edward Jones, she stepped back to focus on family and service. Now managing our Etsy shops, she finds renewed purpose using her skills to uplift others and strengthen community.
Christie Stevens
Board Member
As a Board Member, Christie brings years of ministry and chaplaincy experience to The Rose TLC. Her friendship with Ruth spans decades, and now living in South Carolina, she finds joy and purpose in supporting the mission to serve others with love and dignity.
Steve Kegg
Board Member
As a Board Member, Steve brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to The ROSE TLC. With a background in music and engineering, and 37 years at The Hoover Co., he now finds joy serving in the thrift store and supporting the mission with heart and humility.
Meet the Staff
John & Ruth Featherstone
Executive Directors & Co-Founders
John and Ruth Featherstone are the visionary founders behind The ROSE TLC and The ROSE Thrift and MORE! With a shared passion for uplifting the most vulnerable, they launched this unique nonprofit and thrift store to serve widows, widowers, and young adults aging out of foster care—locally and beyond.
Carol Poppe
Sales Assistant
Originally from Massachusetts, Carol has lived in North Carolina for 30 years and has a passion for serving others. She previously worked with John and Ruth in outreach and joined The ROSE TLC in 2023. A creative spirit and gardener, Carol also displays her artwork in the store. She’s honored to help create a welcoming space for every customer.
Jordan Reid
Sales Assistant
Jordan is a grad student at Lenoir-Rhyne University studying Counseling. Originally from Cornelius, NC, she’s passionate about helping those facing trauma and loss. A visit to The ROSE TLC sparked a connection, and she soon joined the team. Jordan brings compassion and heart to the mission of restoring hope for vulnerable families.
Stephanie Brown
Sales Assistant
Stephanie is a devoted wife and mother of two, originally from Pittsburgh. She loves organizing, reading, and watercolor painting. Living at Sipes Orchard Home with her husband, Jamie, has strengthened their faith and commitment to serving families. Stephanie joined The ROSE TLC through a love for thrifting, and now finds deep joy in helping foster families, widows, and orphans.
Nick YouHouse
Support Team Member
Nick is a proud, North Carolina native, who enjoys sports games, spending time with family and friends, traveling to explore new places, and line dancing. He stays active at the YMCA and gives back through community volunteering. Nick is grateful to be part of the team at The ROSE TLC.
Join The Family & Make A Difference
Our family of over 40 volunteers have found a home here - join us
and help us continue making a impact
The ROSE TLC and The ROSE Thrift and MORE! are powered by an incredible team of volunteers. From greeting customers and preparing donations to assisting with displays, landscaping, cashiering, and even woodworking—there’s a place for every gift and willing heart. With over 40 active volunteers, we’re always looking to grow our Volunteer “Family.” We care deeply about one another and have fun doing meaningful work that blesses our community. If you’re looking for purpose, connection, and a way to give back—we’d love to have you with us.
"Volunteering at The ROSE has brought me friendships, joy, and a deep sense of purpose.”
- Carol, Volunteer