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New local fundraiser comes out of the closet [The Janesville Gazette, Wis. :: ](Janesville Gazette (WI) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) July 05--JANESVILLE -- Jennifer Shaw began helping area nonprofits that serve children by hosting 25-cent children's clothing sales this year. The Kids Closet owner also set up accounts for the organizations allowing people to donate their clothing. In addition, proceeds from clothing sales are added to each group's account to benefit their programs and services for the clients they serve. The children's clothing resale shop, at 2411 Milton Ave., offers clean, affordable, like-new clothing, toys, baby equipment and more. It has conducted fundraisers for ECHO, Independent Disability Services, Acts of Kindness and Head Start since February. The goal is to have the 25-cent clothing sales on a regular schedule and at least once a month. People are asked to bring in their freshly laundered, like-new items on trade for credit, Shaw said. "They bring it in, we sell it, then put it on credit for them to use in the store. It' a nice way to be able to go shopping and not have to spend any money," she said. Items not accepted for sale--since Kids Closet takes pride in offering only clean, top quality used items--can be left at the store for donation to local nonprofits. Then the organization's volunteers help set up for a sale, when they also help, in the back of the store. Nonprofit staff is thrilled with the results. "Working with Jennifer was an opportunity to be able to reach some different clients and people in the community. It was a pleasure to work with her and important because everybody is trying to raise money. ECHO needs funds to be able to help its clients," said Fran Brien, volunteer coordinator. "Her heart is in the right place as far as helping nonprofits," Brien said of Shaw. IDS is thankful for Shaw's support. which raised $600 in April for the nonprofit agency that has been serving individuals with developmental disabilities in Rock County since 1979, said Stacey Bodnar, public relations and marketing specialist. "Anytime we can get out in the community and tell people about our mission and goals, it's a win-win even without bringing in the money toward programs and services," she said. Shaw isn't just about helping the nonprofits. "Families also are going to be able to benefit by being able to buy kids' clothes for 25 cents," she said. Shaw also will give foster parents and day care providers discounts on the brand new Melissa & Doug educational and classic toys she carries in her store. She also will put out a collection bin for children's causes, and wants to work with schools and parent teacher organizations. Soon she will begin using volunteers in her store who need to meet community-service requirements. "It's really about helping everyone in need," she said. ___ (c)2014 The Janesville Gazette (Janesville, Wis.) Visit The Janesville Gazette (Janesville, Wis.) at www.gazetteextra.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |