A Letter from our founder ......
2023! No Ceiling Collapses! No Flooding! What will I write
Reflecting on 2023 and realizing there were no major structural issues with the warehouse, opens the door for all the positivity that went on at Upscale Rummage. Unfortunately, when Upscale is doing really good work, it means there are many who need our services. Too many homeless, too many trying to make ends meet and too many struggling to provide for their families.
To that end, Upscale Rummage fulfilled more than 48 vouchers through our partnerships with Mothers Trust, The Hope Center, Ni Casa, Catholic Charities, Stepping Stones, Libertyville Township, DCFS and several school districts, resulting in the donation of almost $30,000.00 worth of furniture, beds, pots and pans, bedding, lamps, clothes and shoes, and even toys. We provided the families with tangible comforts and more importantly, relief from and support for the hardships in their lives. It is so rewarding.
Our annual donation program and Sharing Saturday program allowed us to give almost $160,000 to other non-profits who are doing so much good through their own work*.
There are many ways we contribute that are not easily quantified. Volunteers take our sleeping bags, ski clothes and yoga mats to the homeless in Chicago. Two organizations send shoes to other countries, our vases benefit the florists that take arrangements to hospitals and nursing homes. We just started a FREE children’s clothing give-away. We have held two so far and hope to do 5-6 per year.
We supported the effort in Ukraine by sending our home health supplies (walkers, crutches, wheelchairs, canes, etc.) and 17 camouflage uniforms over-seas. An associate has parents fighting there and she oversaw the process.
We also donated three slave quilts to The DuSable Black History Museum in Chicago, and a large collection of 1940’s Chicago sewer maps to the Harold Washington Sewer Projects Archives.
Remember the sailor’s uniforms?
In 2022, we sent a donation of a Viet Nam veteran’s uniforms and personal belongings to the National Museum of the American Sailor and it was accepted into their permanent collection. In December of last year, we received this email from the museum.
“While processing your donation, unknown additional items were discovered behind the framed documents.
They are student architectural blueprints and sketches from the same sailor in the original donation, Robert Geudtner, whilst he was a student at Iowa State University. They appear to be from a student project. These items do not fit within our scope and Iowa State is interested in having them for their collection.
I am writing to confirm that you, as the original donor, do not want these blueprints and sketches. If so, we will proceed with transferring them to Iowa State.”
We of course approved their transfer to Iowa State University. This story has a life of its own!
Volunteerism is the heart of our mission**
The people who volunteer at Upscale Rummage are loyal, funny, dedicated, FUNNY, talented and SO FUNNY! We’d love to have you join our ranks. We have so much FUN! In fact, if you and a few friends could offer us 9 hours a week of volunteerism, we would donate to your chosen non-profit. 9 hours translates to once a week, three people for three hours, for three months. That is so doable. Call your friends!
Financial Support
Because we are known for giving money away, rarely do we receive cash donations. I can only think of two people in the last 10 years that have supported us financially. I say this only because we work so hard for every dollar we make in hopes of helping others. My heart breaks a little with each rent payment, dumpster fee and supply invoice. I know there are hundreds of worthy organizations vying for your donations. Please consider Upscale Rummage in your charitable decision making so we can continue to impact the lives of so many deserving families.
VERY sincerely,
Renée Baldwin
Volunteer Founder and CEO
*Please visit our website for details about our beneficiaries and
** Volunteer and Donation opportunities. http://upscalerummage.org
Renée Baldwin
Founder
Upscale Rummage and Furniture Warehouse
About Us
Volunteer
About Us
Upscale Rummage exists solely to serve others. We are a volunteer-based, not-for-profit (5013c) resale shop, giving all proceeds to other non-profits throughout Lake and Cook counties. Additionally, we assist people in need, including refugees, people affected by house fires, medical emergencies, incarceration, job loss, and homelessness.
We also assist the planet by keeping usable goods out of landfills.
Our Shop
Volunteer
About Us
Find your next treasure here! Housed in a 10,000+ square foot warehouse, Upscale Rummage is set up just like a department store, with over 20 departments, including furniture, rugs, lamps, and artwork. We have an extensive clothing and shoe department, including men’s and children’s, toys, jewelry, antiques, etc. You’ve got to see it to believe it! Before you buy new, check us out. We may have just what you are looking for!
Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart of our organization. We can't do it without them! Whether you are looking for a one-day project for a group or a regular gig, we have space for you!
Upscale Rummage has volunteer opportunities for everyone; no experience is needed! Youth groups, seniors, those fulfilling community service hours, and anyone who just wants to have fun!
