Does the thought of going through that box that has been sitting in your garage or basement overwhelm you? Do you wish someone would clear out that hall closet while you are out so you wouldn’t have to do it? Spring cleaning is one of those items that can stay on your “to do” list for weeks, even months. But once you have tackled the task of getting those boxes, closets and basements cleared, you always feel better. Now what do you do with those items that you no longer want or need? That is the easy part. Donate those goods and give them a new life!

For 11 years, I have been cleaning out my closets, cabinets and garage for the Tossed and Found Rummage Sale. What started out as an annoying membership requirement, quickly became a favorite way to make new space, support a JLW fundraiser and allowed me to recycle my gently used goods back into the community.

The rummage sale grew on me. My journey on the Tossed and Found Committee began as a half placement and I admit that I was a reluctant participant that first year. I didn’t know anyone on the committee and the thought of sorting other member’s donated items was not my idea of a good weekend. In fact, it sounded like a waste of time. But something happened while organizing all the interesting items our membership donates. I made friends and discovered that this rummage sale isn’t just about raising funds to support the JLW mission. It was about the clothes, the electronics, the house wares and the furniture that our shoppers joyfully took home. These donated items were not just bargains, they were great finds in the eyes of the beholder.

I served on Tossed and Found for seven years and I realized over that time period that the sale really reached our diverse Washington, D.C. community. And with the economy struggling, our reach has grown, providing the JLW a great opportunity to share our story and increase our awareness. Our shoppers include JLW members, bargain hunters, antique dealers and families or individuals in transition, to name a few. They come from different parts of the city and all are looking for a different need. So, when you finally get around to your spring cleaning, donate your gently used items to the JLW Tossed and Found Rummage Sale. As a member you will be fulfilling a requirement. But you will also be giving your items a new life, supporting our mission and reaching the community in another way. Now, doesn’t that feel good?

For information about the 2012 Tossed and Found Rummage Sale, click here.