Okay, Now that I think I know what I am doing...I initially was on board for the the welcoming committee idea. I think it could have far reaching consequences. It could als have a potentially huge inpact on local businesses, which is always a plus, because when business is good, it is good for the entire communtiy. I still thinkk this is a super ides, but when I talked with Carrie earlier, she said that shediscovered there is a national welcoming program. I have no idea how far reaching or effective it is because I have never heard of it. Further, itis not affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce. Having a local welcoming committee that is affiliated with the Chamber would be great.
As far as the clothing closet. I know that people can get referrals for clothing vouchers through most non-profits, churces, and social services programs. WAVI does this regularly. The Salvation Army has even been known to let individuals work for goods. WAVI, the Cornerstone, and the thrift stores receive massive amounts of clothing donations. The one draw back is that you never know what your going to get. The cloths may be nice up-to-date clothng or not. What I see in my work is that many of the same people use the clothing voucher services and I suspect it would be similar if we had a clothing closet.
Just a few thoughts.
As far as the clothing closet. I know that people can get referrals for clothing vouchers through most non-profits, churces, and social services programs. WAVI does this regularly. The Salvation Army has even been known to let individuals work for goods. WAVI, the Cornerstone, and the thrift stores receive massive amounts of clothing donations. The one draw back is that you never know what your going to get. The cloths may be nice up-to-date clothng or not. What I see in my work is that many of the same people use the clothing voucher services and I suspect it would be similar if we had a clothing closet.
Just a few thoughts.
I just got off the phone with Denise, owner of New Neighbors. She would love to be affiliated with the Chamber. Maybe we could integrate her program somehow or help her make it more well-known. I'm having lunch with her tomorrow. She called me tonight to find out some of my interests so she can personalize my gift basket. She has more connections in Ellsworth than in Rapid City at this time and I would like to help New Neighbors become a more prominently known service.
ReplyDeleteThat's what I want right now. I'll have more ideas I'm sure tomorrow after lunch.