Sometimes one of the biggest hurdles from clients is getting their donated items OUT THE DOOR! And since we are moving full-on into giving season, it’s a great time to consider what may be helpful to others, and also clear out before Christmas.
A pile that’s ready to shift out of the house!
People want to know their items will be loved and used well. And while I think Goodwill or the local Veterans Street pick-up are perfectly acceptable ways of passing along items, I wanted to share some alternatives that really support an individual, recycle, or provide materials for makers.
One of my favorites over this last year has been the Buy Nothing Project, which has created hyper-local Facebook group “gift economies” that help neighbors share among themselves. You post a “GIFT” for items you are ready to part with, and have the opportunity to leave out for a neighbor or meet them for a pick-up, or you can post a “WISH” for items you have a need for. I’ve loved watching folks in my area have needs for clothing, furniture, exercise equipment and more met through this group.
When it comes to giving, I also feel it’s important to consider my habits. It’s not necessary to stress yourself out driving all over town. Where are you already going? When I had babies and it was difficult to get out the house, having the Vietnam Veterans pick-up bags right at my driveway was so wonderful. Now that my kids are in school, I’m making full use of the bin in our parking lot, which also raises money for the school - win, win!
When it comes to clothing, I’m loving the idea of this new local service in RVA, Stitchback - which PICKS up, sorts for you the items that can be sold, what can be donated or recycled so keep clothing out of landfills.
Because I’m a creative, I often have an onslaught of craft supples and periodically need to clean-out. I usually start with my Buy Nothing group, but was also excited to find a local secondhand craft supplies shop, ScrapRVA to donate to.
Follow my Pinterest board as well for ongoing ideas, including wear to donate sneakers, old glasses, business attire, prom dresses and more! Making intentional donations can ease the blow of parting with items we love but just don’t use. Happy gifting!