Guest columnist Barbara Goldberg, co-vice president of retail operations at the National Council of Jewish Women, has been a member of NCJW/CLE since 1984. A native of Shaker Heights, Barbara was taught the importance of volunteerism at a young age and found her true passion in volunteering with NCJW/CLE. When asked why she loves NCJW/CLE, Barbara says, “I love the fact that NCJW represents women, children and families, and I really enjoy the camaraderie with the Designer Dress Days crew!”
As summer draws to a close and back-to-school season approaches, many of us find ourselves rummaging through closets, garages, and attics, discovering things we no longer need or use.
Donating these items is a great way to clear the clutter and support those in need. You can do good and feel good about it!
But sometimes it is misunderstandings that prevent people from donating. And that is unfortunate.
As co-vice president of retail for the National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland (NCJW/CLE), I know how important donations are.
NCJW/CLE, for example, relies on generous donations from the community to support our mission to improve the lives of women, children and families in Cleveland.
One of our flagship programs, Share What You Wear, provides bags of clothing selected by social workers at schools and agencies to children in need or in crisis situations.
And Thriftique Showroom, one of Cleveland’s oldest thrift stores, offers a wide selection of quality items – including clothing, sofas, desks and artwork – at affordable prices.
Additionally, our annual Designer Dress Days, a three-day pop-up event, offers the community the opportunity to purchase high-quality designer clothing at a fraction of retail price. (Psst: Save the date for this year’s event: November 1-3 at Legacy Village!)
All of these programs would not be possible without our supporters, which is why misconceptions about donations can be so paralyzing.
In this article we dispel the biggest myths surrounding donations.
Myth 1: Clothing donations are not as valuable as monetary donations
Truth: Clothing donations provide immediate, tangible benefits to people in need. While monetary donations are important, clothing donations help meet basic needs and improve the quality of life of recipients.
And with school starting again soon, parents are looking for help in this area. Everyone wants to start the school year on a good note – and your clothing donations can help boost the confidence of schoolchildren in need.
Myth 2: Donated clothing simply ends up in landfill
Truth: Reputable charities and secondhand shops like ours do everything they can to ensure that donated clothing is used effectively. Unsellable items are recycled or repurposed, reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability.
Myth 3: You should only donate if you can give a lot
Truth: Every contribution, no matter how small, is valuable. Even if it’s just a pair of used Nikes or a black skirt that never fit properly. You don’t have to wait until you have a whole car full of stuff to donate – even a small bag of donations can be used immediately!
Myth 4: All donated clothing is accepted
Truth: Not all items are eligible for donation. NCJW/CLE – and many other donation sites – place dignity at the forefront of our values. When asked for guidelines on what we accept, we often say: Would you like to give these items to your best friend’s child??
And some items, like old car seats, are just not safe to sell or give away, so it’s important to check with an organization first to see what they accept.
Myth 5: Donations bring no personal benefit
Truth: Giving can have numerous personal benefits, including a sense of fulfillment, improved mental well-being, and potential tax benefits. Knowing that you’re making a positive impact can increase your overall sense of purpose and happiness, making it a win-win-win!
Drop off your donations at NCJW/CLE, 26055 Emery Road in Warrensville Heights. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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