How do you define value? In the case of clothing and personal possessions, often the value is more emotional than monetary. Consider for a moment, expressing value in terms of usefulness. If you have not used something as it was intended, it is just lying around taking up space. What a waste! But, what if you found out that your clothes be worth thousands of dollars?

Here are two charitable organizations that you may not know about. These Vancouver-based initiatives might be just the motivation you need to assist you in letting go of the “What If…” in your life.

Donate

Have you changed sizes or lifestyles (recently retired)? If so, consider giving someone a fresh start. Donate your never used and under-used dress shirts and ties, business casual clothing, or steel-toed work boots. Doing so might create an opportunity for an under-employed person to start a new job. A job that might not have been accessible to someone because they did not have interview-appropriate or work-site appropriate clothing to wear. Clothes can be worth thousands of dollars – in income!

Dress for Success works with women of modest means who are unemployed. The charity provides them with professional clothing in which they can attend job interviews and start a new job. Volunteers work with women to choose an interview outfit. They also offer guidance and support for the upcoming interview.

Working Gear is a non-profit society with a focus on providing support and help to men in downtown and eastside Vancouver. They collect business casual clothing and construction clothing – from boots to suits. The items are given to men who are making a serious attempt to return to work. This is a free service provided in tandem with local employment service agencies.

Check out our Resources to find other great organizations that accept donations.

If you need help clearing your closet and you want to donate to these fine charities, contact Out of Chaos. We’d be happy to help.

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