Hosting A Clothing Drive For Opportunity House

Giving Back: My Experience with Opportunity House’s Clothing Drive 

by Katy Taveras

In 2020, while finishing my last semester for my associate’s degree in business management at  Reading Area Community College (RACC), I was nominated for membership in The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). This prestigious organization encourages leadership development and community service. The NSLS mission perfectly fits my personal goals, having just earned my bachelor’s degree in business administration and working in the Human Resources field as Manager of Employee Recruitment and Retention at RACC. As part of the NSLS certification program, I participated in their “Better World Project”, an initiative that addresses a need in the community. This project held immense significance for me; I wanted to make a positive impact and help make my community a better place.      Clothing in bags from a clothing drive for Opportunity House

Opportunity House Makes A Difference in Berks County, Pennsylvania 

Selecting an organization to support with my project was an easy decision. Opportunity House, a local non-profit dedicated to aiding the community’s most vulnerable individuals and families, stood out. Their mission to provide shelter, food, and support services to people experiencing homelessness deeply resonated with me. Knowing the struggles some within our community face, I wanted to help alleviate those burdens in some way. 

Organizing a Clothing Drive to Help Others 

To gather donations, I organized a clothing drive with the support of my family and friends. They were incredibly enthusiastic about contributing to this worthy cause. I spread the word through social media and flyers, outlining the types of clothing Opportunity House could most utilize. The response was overwhelming! Bags filled with gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories piled up in my living room. Witnessing the outpouring of generosity from my loved ones and the wider community was truly heartwarming. 

Donating clothes to Opportunity House is a fantastic way to assist families in difficult circumstances. It’s not just about decluttering your wardrobe; it’s about providing essential items to those in need. The experience was incredibly rewarding. Seeing the mountain of donations we collected, knowing it would directly benefit those seeking Opportunity House’s services, filled me with a sense of accomplishment. 

Touring Opportunity House Provided A New Perspective 

However, my involvement with Opportunity House extended beyond the clothing drive. I had the privilege of touring their shelter facilities. This visit opened my eyes to the breadth of programs they offer. Opportunity House goes far beyond providing temporary shelter; it offers a lifeline to those in crisis. Their services include a safe haven, a food pantry, a pre-K program, and even a summer program for children. These initiatives provide stability and support, empowering individuals and families to rebuild their lives. 

The tour was an eye-opening experience. I hadn’t fully grasped the multifaceted nature of Opportunity House’s work before my visit. They offer not only immediate assistance but also programs that foster long-term success. This comprehensive approach impressed me. 

There’s no doubt that supporting Opportunity House is crucial for our community. The shelter provides a vital safety net for individuals and families facing homelessness and food insecurity. They offer essential resources like food and shelter while equipping residents with the tools they need to get back on their feet. Their programs address the root causes of homelessness, fostering self-sufficiency and empowering individuals to rebuild their lives. Participating in this project instilled in me a profound sense of purpose. Witnessing the dedication of Opportunity House staff and the resilience of the individuals they serve was truly inspiring. 

Host a Clothing Drive And You Will Make a Difference. 

 If you’re considering a clothing drive, I urge you to do it! It’s a fantastic way to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. And remember, every donation, big or small, contributes to Opportunity House’s mission of empowering our community’s most vulnerable members.   Interested in hosting a drive?  Contact Stacy Perlaki at sperlaki@opphouse.org

Clothing collected for a clothing drive for Opportunity House

Donations of clothing are always needed and welcome at Opportunity House.

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