On Saturday May 17th, TJ’s National Honor Society (NHS) hosted their first ever Spring Clothing Swap and community day. This illustrious event featured collaborators such as Frederick Rescue Mission, and the Patriot Pantry (GTJHS). TJ’s NHS and the Common Market Co-op were the primary hosts who advertised the project throughout Frederick.
TJ’s NHS advisor, Rachel Main, and Community Liaison, Suhey Dominguez, worked passionately to make this occasion possible.
At precisely 10:30 in the morning, community members gathered in the GTJHS
cafeteria, to swap their clothes with new or gently used wear. All the while, some individuals solely donated their clothing without swapping in exchange.
Many local organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Frederick Keys, and Curious Iguana set up info tables, adding to the wholesome afternoon. Members from NHS volunteered to collect and organize items while also guiding attendees. Moreover, many NHS members and TJ students donated clothing items while TJ staff and other groups in Frederick donated numerous items.
To add on to the community engagement, the clothing swap included outdoor games and other entertainment for families and donors alike.
The swap successfully concluded around 2:30 PM, with an incredible amount of donated items still remaining for the Frederick Rescue Mission (FRM) and Patriot Pantry.
When the FRM arrived to collect donations in a relatively small van, they were utterly surprised at the unexpected amount of clothing items to the point where a second trip was necessary. Coincidentally, the FRM returned with a moving truck, more volunteers, and over ten 5 foot moving crates for loading.
If this fact did not mark the incredible success of this year’s Spring Clothing Swap, then the amazing volunteers pictured (and not pictured) are witnesses to the story.
Speaking of, thank you to all NHS members, organizational representatives, non-profit volunteers, and all other community members for your inspirational efforts in unfolding this remarkable project. The GTJHS National Honor Society along with the Common Market and Frederick Rescue Mission hopes to continue the clothing swap next year, and are more than grateful for all the support they received across Frederick County.
