North Carolina Thrift Store Supports Disabilities

Young Maverick Underwood is quickly becoming a familiar name in the local business community. At just 5 years old, he’s already leaving an impact.

“He’s my heart,” says his grandmother, Angie Underwood, as customers browse through Maverick’s House, a thrift store located at 2609 Raeford Road and Robeson Street. It’s a unique place where you can find just about anything at a bargain price—from clothes to household items, all while supporting a meaningful cause.

Maverick is the son of Sgt. 1st Class Tyler and Karlie Underwood. He was born at Womack Army Medical Center, and just two days later, doctors diagnosed him with Trisomy 21, commonly known as Down syndrome. According to the National Down Syndrome Society, this condition occurs when a person is born with a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21.

“The only difference with Maverick is that he is nonverbal,” Angie Underwood shares, but she remains optimistic that one day, he will speak. “Otherwise, he’s just like every other child.” Currently, Maverick attends public school in Whiteville, where he lives with his mother. Angie proudly adds, “They say the students just took to him.”

The love and pride his family has for Maverick is clear, especially from his grandfather, the Rev. Tommy Underwood.

“He’s the sweetest thing that God has ever stretched skin over,” says Tommy, 66, pastor at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Rockfish. His adoration for Maverick is undeniable.

Tommy and Angie had long been considering opening a store like Maverick’s House—officially known as Maverick’s House Ministries. Their vision was to create a nonprofit organization that would support individuals with Down syndrome and autism, but they were waiting for the perfect location to present itself. Tommy had his eye on the old Highland Dry Cleaners building, which dates back to the 1950s. Although initially concerned that the space might be too small, he spent time observing the traffic around the area before deciding to lease it.

“Tommy found it and sat across the street,” Angie explains. “He didn’t think at first it was big enough.” But Tommy wasn’t ready to give up. “You count cars,” he said, referring to his observations of foot and vehicle traffic. Parking was his biggest concern, but they managed to find a solution.

Thanks to the financial backing of George and Ann Culbreth, who are members of Tabernacle Baptist Church, Maverick’s House officially opened its doors on July 6. Since then, business has been thriving. The support from the local community has exceeded the Underwoods’ expectations.

“It’s been really good,” Angie says with a smile. “People are really nice. I’ve met other families with children who have Down syndrome, and even grandparents. And I’ve reconnected with people I haven’t seen in years.” The Underwoods are grateful for the overwhelming kindness of their customers.

Tommy echoes his wife’s sentiment. “I was absolutely floored when we opened on July 6,” he says. “We’ve been blessed with donations—clothing, shoes, you name it. We’re not here to ask for money. We’re here to help those with Down syndrome and those who are autistic. We welcome it. Honestly, I’m ashamed that I waited this long to do it.”

The store’s mission extends beyond Down syndrome. They also work closely with Karl and Kim Molnar, founders of Miller’s Crew, a nonprofit organization that provides support and employment opportunities for individuals with autism. Miller’s Crew was inspired by their son, Miller, who is on the autism spectrum. The organization’s goal is to integrate its members into the community through training, apprenticeships, and job opportunities. A member of Miller’s Crew now works at Maverick’s House, a partnership that both organizations are proud of.

“Our first crew member tells us how much he loves it,” says Kim Molnar, “and we hope to send more. Tommy and Angie Underwood are wonderful people. They’re working hard for their mission, and it’s been so well received. I hope the community continues to support them.”

Inside Maverick’s House, you’ll find a wide variety of items. The thrift store is packed with women’s clothes, from skirts and blouses to jackets, sweaters, and even formal wear. One of the more unique finds is a brand-new wedding dress, size 2-3, available for just $30—quite a steal for any bride-to-be.

“Ladies’ tops are our biggest seller,” Angie notes. Alongside clothing, the store offers shoes, boots, belts, and handbags for women, as well as an assortment of children’s shoes.

Men aren’t left out either. Maverick’s House carries slacks, shirts, sport coats, suits, belts, and neckties. Shoppers can also find a range of household items such as comforters, blankets, curtains, lamps, and even Christmas decorations.

“It’s neat,” says customer Gregg Phillips, who visited the store with his grandson for the second time.

One customer was spotted purchasing winter coats to send to friends and family in western North Carolina, where residents are still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Angie’s generous spirit shines through moments like this, as she instructed her cashier to offer the coats at a significant discount.

“I had one lady who bought 23 coats last week to send to western North Carolina,” Angie recalls. “People really care about helping others, and that’s what this place is all about.”

Despite the store’s modest size, the heart behind it is immense. Tommy and Angie Underwood are committed to giving back to the community and supporting causes like Down syndrome and autism. Their efforts don’t stop at the thrift store’s doors. Maverick’s House will be donating to the Triangle Buddy Walk on October 20 in Holly Springs, in support of the North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance. Additionally, they are making a contribution to the 82nd Airborne to assist those in western North Carolina.

Maverick’s House is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The store’s mission has only just begun, and the Underwoods are excited for what the future holds.

“It’s just been great,” Angie says.

As they await approval for their 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, Tommy reflects on the journey so far. “It took a lot of prayer,” he says. “Whatever days I’ve got left, I’m gonna try to help. We’ve been blessed, and we’ll see where it takes us.”

The Underwoods’ dedication to helping those with Down syndrome and autism is evident in every aspect of Maverick’s House, and their community continues to rally around them in support.