BARRINGTON — Encore, the consignment store located in the basement at St. John’s Church, just turned 40.

In November, the shop celebrated the milestone with a fashion show and luncheon. More than 50 people attended the event in the church hall, then many proceeded downstairs to shop for women’s and children’s clothes as well as shoes and accessories.

Encore opened in 1968 by Barrington residents Kit Sebring, Judy Schantz, Ellie Doherty and Julie Hamblett and was fashioned after a consignment store Mrs. Sebring’s mother was associated with in New York.

Money raised through the shop goes entirely to outreach programs at the church, in the community and beyond.

Leslie Ferland, a former director of Encore, said the store began small, mostly dealing with children’s clothing and was open during school hours so moms could volunteer while their children were at school.

“They were open three days a week during the school year in the old rummage room on the other side of the basement,” Ms. Ferland said. “It has grown over the years and for a time we accepted men’s clothing. Encore has remained strong over the years, thanks to those who consign and those who shop here. And of course Encore wouldn’t be in existence without the volunteers.”

Encore is run almost entirely by volunteers. Currently, the shop is directed by Martha Peters and Charlotte Morse. About 12 volunteers come in and help run the business — from accepting consignments, placing items in the shop for sale, to ringing up customers.

The consignment shop takes in items for women and children (they stopped taking men’s clothing a few years ago). Consigners receive 60 percent and Encore receives 40 percent when an item is sold.

Money raised from Encore is used for outreach programs through St. John’s Episcopal Church Women (ECW) organization. Annually, Encore and the ECW are able to raise close to $30,000 for various outreach and charity opportunities.

They give locally, nationally and internationally to various groups — from the Barrington Boosters, the RI Community Food Bank to food vouchers for Navajo Indians.

“When people shop at Encore, they are not only getting a great bargain, but are helping one or more of these worthy organizations,” said Ms. Morse.

Encore volunteers boast that many of the items are well-known brands, like Talbot’s, Ann Taylor, Chico’s, LL Bean, Gap, J. Jill, as well as Coach, Vera Bradley and Kate Spade handbags and shoes.

Kerri Payne has shopped at Encore in the past and said she has found some great treasures there.

“You can really get some great bargains. My warmest winter coat was purchased there and I think I only paid $15 for it,” she said.

Mrs. Peters said she thinks the shop is doing so well because people are looking to stretch a dollar right now.

“If you want to make a few dollars with clothes you no longer wear or buy something at a great price, Encore is worth visiting,” she said.

Encore Consignment Shop

• Location: St. John’s Episcopal Church basement

• Hours: During school year, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; First Saturday of the month; Closed school vacations and summer