About Us
How Wear 'n Share started...
How Wear 'n Share started...
How Wear 'n Share started...
Wear ‘n Share was created in June of 2009 by Kerri Howell. The idea was first conceived while reading an article about a teacher who said she had students who couldn't attend school because their parents couldn’t afford clothing and shoes for them to wear. Knowing her own children had barely worn outgrown shoes and clothing collecting
Wear ‘n Share was created in June of 2009 by Kerri Howell. The idea was first conceived while reading an article about a teacher who said she had students who couldn't attend school because their parents couldn’t afford clothing and shoes for them to wear. Knowing her own children had barely worn outgrown shoes and clothing collecting dust in the basement, Kerri felt compelled to find a way to get them to the kids who needed them. After further research learning that Buffalo’s poverty is the 3rd highest in the country, Kerri realized there was more to be done than just her children could provide. She felt an innate desire to try to make a difference. When Kerri initiated discussions with other parents, many wanted to help, but didn’t know how to reach the families in need. That’s where Wear ‘n Share comes in. She decided her mission was to be the connection between the communities wanting to help and the families in need.
Next Steps...
How Wear 'n Share started...
How Wear 'n Share started...
Kerri began to reach out to the local community to collect donations of new and gently used children’s clothing, coats, and shoes to deliver to children and families in need in Buffalo and surrounding areas. She was overwhelmed by the generosity of the community and the outpouring of clothing donations she received.
She sought out local
Kerri began to reach out to the local community to collect donations of new and gently used children’s clothing, coats, and shoes to deliver to children and families in need in Buffalo and surrounding areas. She was overwhelmed by the generosity of the community and the outpouring of clothing donations she received.
She sought out local charitable organizations, agencies, counselors, schools, and churches who work with families needing assistance to let them know Wear ‘n Share is here to help. She is now working with over 100 that serve families in need. Through collaboration with these partners, in 13 years Wear ‘n Share has helped over 13,000 children living in poverty in the Buffalo area. The stories are many and the needs are great, which is why Kerri feels this ministry is so important to our community. It is her hope to never turn away any family or child in true need of clothing.
The future is bright...
How Wear 'n Share started...
The future is bright...
In August of 2010 Wear ‘n Share was blessed with a larger space in which to house their children’s clothing. Kerri had outgrown her start-up location and needed more room in order to continue this ministry. Wear ‘n Share is currently operating out of Epiphany United Church of Christ’s Community Outreach Building. which kindly opened the
In August of 2010 Wear ‘n Share was blessed with a larger space in which to house their children’s clothing. Kerri had outgrown her start-up location and needed more room in order to continue this ministry. Wear ‘n Share is currently operating out of Epiphany United Church of Christ’s Community Outreach Building. which kindly opened their doors to local organizations who reach out to help children and families in need of assistance.
Kerri’s only request from the families she assists is “for them to keep the circle of giving going by helping someone else in need through a kind gesture or act….just pay it forward. A simple act of kindness can go a long way in changing one’s outlook on life and faith in humanity”.
Be the Change Challenge
Change can begin with a small act of kindness....
I never dreamed when I started this journey. that I would be able to touch so many little lives. 10 years and 10,000 kids later, I sit here reflecting on how a small idea became an opportunity to fill a need in our community. Recycling clothing is such a simple one, that any one could do with a little passion and initiative. I studied Fashion Merchandising in College and went on to work in retail management and merchandising after I graduated. So I guess you could say, I found a way to use my inherent interests and skills to benefit others. So that is my challenge to you. I'm calling it, the "Be the Change Challenge" based on a Ghandi quote that I try to live by every day.... "Be the change you wish to see in the world."
What is the challenge?
Whatever your gifts and talents are, find a way to use them to help those in need and "be the change."
- If you have a skill in the trades, look into volunteering for an organization like Habitat for Humanity or just offer your services to neighbors who you know may need miscellaneous odd jobs done.
- Are you a teacher? Well then, you're already a hero in my book, but how about donating time to tutor after school? So many can't afford this service, but desperately need just a little extra help and someone who cares enough to give it to them.
- Play sports? Donate your time coaching kids. It's a great way to spend time doing something you love and positively influence kids who may need a connection in their lives.
- Is baking your talent? Then how about running a bake sale for a cause you are passionate about?
- Do you have a gift for gardening? Help create a community garden in an impoverished neighborhood and teach others your skills so they can learn to grow their own plants and food.
These are just a few examples, off the top of my head, but I know if you look within yourselves, you can find a way to use your life experiences to make a difference in someone else's life. I promise you will get back so much more than you give!
Where do I begin?
You don't need to start big. Try shoveling walks or mowing lawns, buy someone's coffee or groceries behind you in line, reach out to someone you know needs a friend, connect with an elderly neighbor. A small gesture can make such an impact!
Want to do more?
- Make a list of all your gifts, talents, skills, work experiences, etc.
- Make a list of all the activities you enjoy doing.
- What causes are you passionate about? The environment, poverty, drug prevention, etc.
- Think about how you can turn the above into opportunities to help those in need.
- Brainstorm ideas with friends or family. They may even want to get involved too!
- Google Search some ideas or areas you are interested in to find out if there are organizations already out there who are looking for volunteers with your skills or interests.
- If not, consider starting your own organization offering your specialized services. (That's how I started Wear 'n Share!)
If you decide to take the Be the Change Challenge, I would love to hear from you! Share your experiences, how you're making a difference, and the impact it's had on your life. One person can start a ripple that can turn into a movement. Are you up for the challenge?
Kerri Howell
Founder, Wear 'n Share
"Be the change you wish to see in the world"- Gandhi
