For many, the idea of "thrift shopping" can be daunting. All that searching, analyzing and evaluating of second-hand goods: Is the item in good shape? Is it truly a bargain? It may seem more simple to walk into a department store, point out what is desired, pay and go home.

But lately, as gas and energy prices keep rising, so do the costs of everyday necessities. More Islanders are searching for ways to cut spending, and thrift shops can be an attractive option.

An emphasis on green living can also be an incentive: That shiny new item may be a carbon footprint "no-no." But buy it at a thrift store, and you're guilt-free!

As volunteers at the Assistance League of Hawaii Thrift Shop sift through piles of donated clothing, the ladies excitedly point out items that still carry price tags, and have seemingly never been used.

"If you want to be 'green,' shopping at thrift stores is the ultimate in recycling," says Elaine Beal, a volunteer at the ALH thrift store for the past two years. "It's not only environmental, but shopping at the Assistance League is also contributing to the community."

The nonprofit organization is funded by the thrift shop and private donations. One of its community projects, Operation School Bell, provides children in high-risk areas with new clothing for the school year.

"This project is something we are all really proud of," says volunteer Diane Keith, an ALH member since 2003.

"We really try to provide our customers with high-quality products, so everything that we don't accept is donated to the Big Brothers Big Sisters program," says Keith as she passed bins of donations.

Many nonprofit thrift shops not only allow for savings but also benefit the community.

Seldom open, and tucked away in the basement of Leahi Hospital in Kaimuki, the long-term care facility's small shop is stuffed with antiques, books, toys and kitchenware.

"Our proceeds go back to our residents," says Sandy Harris, an employee at Leahi.

The proceeds of the thrift store go toward a staff wish list of items that the hospital can't otherwise afford — including a new hospital van equipped with handicap accessibility.

"We use the van for activities like picnics on Waikiki Beach, or sometimes we'll go on a drive and stop for some ice cream," Harris says.

Whether it's to be "green," save an extra dollar, or help out a nonprofit organization, your neighborhood thrift store might not only have what you need, but could help someone else down the line.