October 22, 2024 —Written By: Barb Ceruti
Kendal at Lexington is showing appreciation for its staff with a new initiative called the Sharing Closet, which began as a simple “free table” near the time clock where residents could leave items for staff to take as needed. Now, the Sharing Closet is a designated area in the Sunnyside House.
“It’s like a food pantry,” said Erica Turman, Director of Marketing. The idea was initiated by core leadership who recognized a significant need among staff members.
Both residents and administrators have donated a variety of items, but only staff are welcome to take them. The unmanned, 24/7 Sharing Closet operates on the honor system and has quickly become popular. “Residents have wanted to do something like this for so long,” Turman said.
“This is a beautiful anonymous system; no one is looking for a thank you. It’s a labor of love grounded in the Quaker values we at Kendal live by,” she added.
The Sharing Closet has provided necessities such as canned goods, detergent, and clothing, as well as unique items like vintage wax stamps. “We have found some very surprising things in the Closet,” Turman said. “Currently, there’s a bicycle in there!”
Residents, the most generous donors, are enthusiastic about the initiative, contributing not just used items but also brand new, high-quality goods for the staff they appreciate. “Residents are going above and beyond. They want our team members to have nice, new things,” Turman remarked.
Each month features a donation theme to spark ideas. May’s theme was Summertime, encouraging sunscreen and beach clothes, while June focuses on books and magazines. Although donors don’t have to follow the theme, it helps inspire creativity and adds an element of fun.
“We all care about each other so much here at Kendal. The Sharing Closet is the physical embodiment of that care, and everyone is excited about it,” said Turman. “If you build it, they will come!”