This mother-son duo makes giving back to their community a family affair - by Ava Saric
“Life is too short to not bring as much happiness into this world as possible,” said Donna Kelly, owner of Ocean City’s Oh Sea Thrift. “Every day is an opportunity to do something nice for someone.” This mantra for Donna is not only one with great importance, using it as the blueprint of her own life, but one her children find extremely valuable as well. Following the pandemic and unable to stay as involved in the Ocean City community, she was inspired to build something of meaning and provide relief to the less fortunate. That’s when Oh Sea Thrift was born. Oh Sea Thrift sits on Central Avenue and is home to gently-loved items from clothes to housewares. All proceeds go to the Humane Society of 50 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM
AUGUST 2022
Ocean City. “My main focus has always been volunteering,” said Donna. “I recently turned 60 and ever since I can remember, helping others was my priority, whether that be with the Second Chance Foundation, Humane Society of OC, or additional cancer and handicap facilities. With years of knowledge on each of these foundations, I knew I wanted Oh Sea Thrift to provide funding to the animals.” Donna’s love for any and all animals is demonstrated through her efforts to evolve her business into something unique and favorable for everyone. “From furniture, dog collars, pots and pans, clothes, and more, we have everything one can think of,” said Donna. “The store really is a one-stop shop.” With no prior experience owning or successfully running a business, Donna remained committed; as the cause was always
her inspiration. “I love animals and I want educate the world on not only how amazing they are, but also how to protect them, whether that be through dog adoption, turtle awareness, or milkweed conservation for the butterflies,” said Donna. “I am extremely fortunate to be in a position where I can help the organization, and I will continue to do so for as long as I can.” Giving back to her community has been a love of Donna’s, and she raised her sons with the intent to have them help others. Donna’s sons Chris and Rob spent a majority of their summers in Ocean City. Surfing became a driving force in their lives and they enrolled in OCHS, never again living too far from the waves. Since then, Chris has become a paramedic in Hawaii, where he demonstrates this intention of helping others daily. As for 32-year-old Rob, he’s traveled far and wide as a professional surfer, but always find
