An organization that operates 30 thrift stores in Colorado as part of efforts to assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has announced plans to open a location in Grand Junction.

Arc Thrift Stores plans to open the store in the spring in the East Gate Shopping Center at North Avenue and 28 1/4 Road. The store will sell everything from clothes to toys and furniture to housewares. People will be able to donate gently used items at the back door.

“Shopping and donating to Arc helps the environment by recycling and repurposing while also helping us achieve our mission of advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Lloyd Lewis, president and chief executive officer of Arc Thrift Stores.

Based in Denver, Arc Thrift Stores operates 30 stores and 17 donation stations in Colorado. The organization is one of the largest employers in the state of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By one estimate, Arc Thrift Stores have contributed $2.3 billion to the state economy since 2005.

“To date, Arc Thrift Stores has provided more than $2 million for the Western Slope Arc chapters. We look forward to partnering with other local nonprofits — and to integrating into the community and to being a resource and a place of employment for people with I/DD and others,” Lewis said.