2011 Honorable Mention: Trinkets to Treasures

Program Goal

The goal of Trinkets to Treasures is to create a learning opportunity for Provisionals by giving them the responsibility to organize and operate an important League fundraiser.

Program Description

Now 22 years old, Trinkets to Treasures is a rummage sale that raises funds to support The Junior League of Collin County’s community projects while providing a service to partner community agencies.  Each year members donates new and used high quality merchandise for sale at a reasonable price.  The used and new merchandise include computers, appliances, clothes, toys, furniture, books and linens.

Local businesses and individuals donate shopping certificates in increments of $25 to several Collin County agencies.  These agencies then distribute the certificates to families in need who purchase items at Trinkets and Treasures.  Since the Program’s inception over 350 shopping certificates were distributed and proceeds have helped 14 community projects.  This is a low cost program that provides families in need direct assistance.

Trinkets to Treasures helps create community impact by partnering with local agencies.  For example, it partners with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Children’s Advocacy Outreach, CITY House and other agencies to connect families in need with basic merchandise donated to this fundraiser.

The event also offered free health and safety information which included blood pressure and dental screenings, mini eye exams and screening from the Baylor Mammography Mobile unit.  Trinkets to Treasures has earned a county wide reputation as an exceptional event where families in need are served.

These Provisional members plan and execute this event while being mentored by an Active member who serves as the committee chair. Provisional have an opportunity to build skills through managing a multifaceted initiative.

Results/Outcomes

For the past two plus decades, Trinkets to Treasures generated financial resources that enable the League to pursue its community impact agenda.  Over the life of the program to date, Trinkets has raised over $310,000.  On average the event raises $25,000 to $35,000 annually which supports many local community agencies.

As a result of Trinkets to Treasures the League is positioned as a reliable community partner to serve families in need by collaborating with local agencies.  Also the program serves as an excellent vehicle to involve and cement the Provisional members to the League and to its mission.

Evaluation

The League tracks the amount of funds raised and the number of certificates distributed and used.