Where Stuff Matters

a clear placeI just couldn’t share enough about this wonderful organization, so here’s a follow up to last week’s feature. Community Warehouse Communications Director,  Rena Satre Meloy, took time from her busy schedule yesterday to give me the inside view of this bustling nonprofit.  The warehouse was buzzing during my entire visit – a continual stream of donations coming in and going out. And just like their Tualatin location, everything was done with efficiency and a smile. Adjacent to the warehouse, we toured the Estate Store and as at their SW branch, I was impressed with the organization and clean and attractive displays. And such diverse items! Everything from a Murano glass chandelier to a nautical folding screen to a vintage doll complete with clothes and trunk. All at bargain prices with proceeds supporting the CW programs. Rena shared that an average of 40 families a week are outfitted with everything they need to set up house. An additional 20 families are serviced weekly at the Tualatin location. It’s amazing how much work can be accomplished by so few when the hearts are dedicated. Thank you, Rena, for being such a warm ambassador for a worthy and much needed cause. You guys are the real deal.

DONATE, SHOP & SUPPORT – Be mindful of stuff  and get it/bring it where it matters. CW Estate Stores are open 7 days a week. Click here for address and hours. Watch here for more updates and ideas on helping our community by helping Community Warehouse. Don’t live in the PDX area? Visit the ACP Resources page or Contact me with your location and I’ll find an organization that can use your stuff. As always, thanks for making it a brighter world!

Wishing for Volunteers

dessertHow’d you like to be around scrumptious food like this and help a great cause at the same time? If you live in the Portland metro area, here’s an opportunity. Albertina Kerr needs volunteers, especially servers for their restaurant in NE PDX. Albertina’s Restaurant features Northwest-inspired cuisine in a garden setting serving lunch/brunch Mon thru Sat. Also on site is the Kerr’s Economy Jar (antiques consignment), Albertina’s Jewel Box (gift shop for jewelry/accessories), and the Kerr Thrift Shop (clothing for men & women/household items) – all run by volunteers!  All proceeds and tips help support the work of Albertina Kerr, which strengthens Oregon families and communities by helping children and adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges – empowering them to live richer lives.  Click here for information about volunteer opportunities. Click here to read a recent Oregonian article featuring the restaurant, it’s new chef and the history behind the famous Kerr name.

Click here for a free pdf of my Consigning Your Stuff – Top Tips for Portland Area ( including Kerr Economy Jar).

Tropical Estate Sale

Downsizing CAN be fun … even in the heat. Zoe created this reading oasis where shoppers can enjoy garden shade while selecting books. Ripe plums from the tree provide a golden, juicy snack while you browse. Zoe did a great job arranging all the items –  from furniture to ornaments – so things are easy to find and fun to look at. Shoppers are arriving on foot, on bikes and in vans. Terrific bargains and smiling faces – a perfect combo in any weather!  FINAL Sale Date: Sunday July 31st, 10 – 4. 7026 NE Grand, PDX. (Near MLK & Dekum)

SERIOUS downsizing sale

THIS weekend … help Zoe clear out and help yourself to great bargains. If  you are in need of something special, this is the place. Lots of unusual and cool things. Hope to see you there!  View items and descriptions.  Sat/Sun July 30/31 from 10 to 4 in NE PDX. Email Zoe for directions: zoevapa@gmail.com

Jane Green on YouTube

Check out these raw (as in impromptu, unscripted, unrehearsed) video vignettes. Zoe from Seniors Homing Together is preparing for her SERIOUS downsizing sale and I stopped by to lend a hand and offer suggestions. She decided on the spot to record the visit in hopes of inspiring others to start clearing their stuff. If she can do it, anyone can!
 
There are 9 little segments in all. Here are two of them:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvkfUaizWXo&feature=player_embedded
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmQu-YFkcew&feature=related
 
SALE INFO: Zoe was a chef and is letting go of lots of cookware, cookbooks  – along with years of artwork, furniture, art supplies, electronics, etc. Her goal is to live life large in a tiny footprint. Yay! If you are in the PDX area, the sale is this Sat/Sun July 30/31 from 10 to 4 in NE PDX. Email Zoe for directions: zoevapa@gmail.com

Get Clear for Summer!

One Stop Sustainability Shop is hosting a special STUFF-ication workshop on June 15th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. This class gives you one hour of STUFF-ication concepts PLUS one hour on how to keep your home clear and fresh for summer. Warm weather brings heavier energy … learn what to do to keep your place clean and fresh the easy green way. Eco-friendly prizes and take home gifts, too! AND you’ll get a coupon for 10% off any purchase in the store if you care to shop after the class. Registration required. $10 fee. Call One Stop on NE Alberta to register: 503-241-5404 or click on the bag for more info and to register online.  Hope to see you there!

Note: Grab dinner or a snack at one of the popular spots within two blocks of the store including Black Cat, Tin Shed and Fuel.