Retired NYPD Detective Ellen Donovan Organizes Cash Mob To ...

North Rockland Cash Mob Logo

HAVERSTRAW, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -?A retired NYPD detective is looking for new ways to help her community.

Retired Detective Ellen Donovan wants to help mom-and-pop shops in Rockland County. ?To do so, she?s organized what?s called a ?cash mob? in the?village?of Haverstraw.

A cash mob is like a?flash mob, but?with a philanthropic twist.?There are only three rules: Have fun, spend $20 and make three new friends.

WCBS 880?s Sean Adams On The Story

?I?m trying to bring people around and tell them, you know, ?You have to support your local stores,?? Donovan told WCBS 880 reporter Sean Adams.

On Saturday, April 21 at noon, the cash mob will descend upon one lucky shop in Haverstraw chosen by an online vote.

There are around 800 people signed up to participate in the group so far.

Donovan plans to bring her cash mob to other northern Rockland County towns.

?Next month may be?Stony Point. It may be?Garnerville,? Donovan told Adams.

To join the North Rockland Cash Mob, check them out?on Facebook?or e-mail the group at?NorthRocklandcashmob@gmail.com. You can also follow them on Twitter @NoRoCashMob.

Do you think the ?cash mob? is a good idea? Sound off in the comments section below.

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