Fashion Made Accessible
This section is meant to highlight my time volunteering for the Children's Community Closet in Lagrange, IL, a non-profit organization that provides clothing for families in need free of charge.
Community
Engagement
This opportunity allowed me to gain insight into the growing need for clothing accessibility and community outreach.
There was a long line of people sat in chairs waiting to be let in, some of them had been there for hours.
While setting up, I spoke with the regular volunteers and found that an abundance of clothing is donated to the cause, so much so that they have overstock and donate the leftover garments.​
My job was to make sure people kept track of their shopping bags and collect empty hangers.
I spoke with many customers, who expressed how grateful they were to the community closet for providing access to clothing for every member of their family.
Environmental Impact
Community programs based in free clothing distribution are crucial in depleting the environmental impact of fast fashion.
Textile waste is one of the main contributors to the release of greenhouse gasses, leading to soil/water contamination, and health issues for the surrounding communities.
By creating community access programs, clothing is being utilized by those who need it most, therefore being prevented from entering a landfill and exacerbating climate change.
Reflection
Volunteering at the community closet allowed me to engage with the community while perpetuating a circular fashion consumption model. I felt inspired by the community's ability to support one another via donations, volunteer efforts, and patronage. The positive impact it has on the community and environment makes it a valuable resource that should be implemented everywhere.