Do You Really Care What it’s Worth, or Do You Just Want Someone to Care?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that we all value the things we own. We may place a sentimental value on something, or perceive a monetary value.  Be careful with this latter one: if no one is willing to pay, the item ultimately is of no (monetary) value. Worded differently, an item is only worth what it can fetch on the market.

Something else I have learned: even if you paid a great deal of money for something you will let it go if you feel it is going to someone who will value it as you once did. This is a sticking point. You have concluded the item does not serve a purpose in your life; but you will not donate it to a thrift store, or leave it to be recycled; but if you know it will serve a purpose for someone else, you’re happy to let it go. You don’t even want money for it. You just want someone to value what once brought you some degree of satisfaction.

What we really need to be focusing on is how to make discarding our clutter – no disrespect intended; I’m just saying if it’s not adding value to your life, it does slide down the scale of importance – easier. I’m going to let you in on a little secret . . . schools love to receive donations.  And don’t limit your generosity to just schools; there are day care centres and city run programs for children that would likely be happy to repurpose some of your stuff.

I was surprised when I first learned that schools are happy to receive paper, notepads, writing instruments, office supplies, books, small toys, the list is endless. Remember that teachers are tasked, in large part, with outfitting their own classrooms. Gifts from the community can go a long way to furnishing a classroom and allow teachers and administrators to stretch their budgets further. I’ve recently donated a rocking chair that will be used in a kindergarten classroom.  And yes, I’m happy to know it is appreciated and enjoyed.

And don’t underestimate the creativity of those who work with kids. I’ve seen assorted paper plates, gift bows, cupcake liners and fabric swatches transformed into beautiful art projects.

High schools can also benefit from your unneeded treasures.  Have you found multiples of everything in your kitchen drawers at some point? Or maybe you’re downsizing and will no longer have a full kitchen to prepare lavish meals and bake goodies. Give you local high school a call.  If they have a teaching kitchen, they will probably be glad to receive small appliances, cooking utensils and food storage containers.

And last, but not least . . . seniors’ communities! Most, if not all, seniors’ residences have a library.  If you are like so many people that have accumulated books over the years, see if your nearest seniors’ residence would be interested in receiving a donation.