The 2nd Story: Gift shop is worth a first look that will keep you coming back for more
On a quiet side street branching off traffic-clogged Garriott road, the little shop sits in a nondescript building next to a miniature golf course.
Inside its doors, sparkling tile floors reflect the cool interior, as soothing music plays and workers talk in the back shop.
The soaps and crafts — everything from cookie mix jars and wooden trays — made by those workers are front and center on display, and jewelry, books and other items surround them.
The only thing missing — customers.
“Traffic’s been very low,” said Lori Waken, who took over the shop’s reins this summer. “Our big challenge right now is letting people know we’re here.”
Once they are inside the doors of The 2nd Story shop, they will come back, Waken said. The gift shop is that inviting, as is its history.
To understand the background behind The 2nd Story, one must hear the first story; of course, the reason the gift shop came into being.
“Any of the profits we make at the store go back to 4RKids,” Waken said.
4RKids is a non-profit organization that began in Enid about six years ago, said Pat Lentz, program director. The genesis for the group came from a need for adults with disabilities to have a social outlet after high school.
High school graduation opens doors of opportunity for most students, Lentz said, but prior to the creation of 4RKids, the doors closed for those with disabilities, who receive a lot of support through the public school system.
