Below is a Q & A with Catie’s Closet and our recurring giver, volunteer and gala committee member, Mimi Thomas. Here, Mimi highlights why Catie’s Closet has become such an important organization to her family and business.
Q: How and when did you originally hear about Catie’s Closet?
A: Gary and I were introduced to Catie’s Closet in 2013. At that time they were in only 11 or 12 schools. We were doing construction on several of the Jeanne D’Arc Credit Unions and were invited to attend the Gala. Both Gary and I were so humbled by what Catie’s Closet was about and the positive impact it had on the children who are in desperate need of so much! Our company, NorthPoint Construction, is adamant about giving back to the community and when it involves young people, it is even better!!! We met Anne-Marie, Mickey, Denise and Laura at this gala and I was immediately inspired to become involved. I volunteered at the Distribution Center several times and was in awe of what this organization had accomplished in a short amount of time.
Q: There are so many non-profit organizations with worthy causes, especially in our local area. What made you choose us over other organizations?
A: The biggest reason we align ourselves with Catie’s Closet is the kids! Supporting Catie’s Closet personally (as well as thru NorthPoint) feels so rewarding! It is important to us that the needs in our own schools are being addressed. My children went to Nashua High North and seeing the closet at the school always reinforced what Catie’s Closet is REALLY about.
I have been on the Gala Committee for 5 years – and absolutely love being involved. I have gotten to know the heart of Catie’s Closet and I truly love these ladies! I have so much admiration for everything they do, all their work is completely a Labor of LOVE!!!! We can’t wait to see how Catie’s Closet will grow in the future…. and are so proud to be involved.
Q: Were you aware that so many children in your local area were in need?
A: NO. Realizing how many children in need right in our own “backyard” is shocking! We had no idea. Being on the Gala Committee has opened my eyes to the very sad reality that our kids are dealing with everyday. It is even more disturbing that this situation gets worse EVERY YEAR!! Mickey has enlightened me time and time again with the truth about what is happening in Nashua, Hudson, Lowell and Manchester, to name a few!! Catie’s Closet will always hold a very special place in our hearts.
Q: What is one thing about Catie’s Closet that resonated with you?
A: Honestly – I am in awe of what goes on in the distribution centers as donations are processed! I have volunteered probably a dozen times and I leave there feeling so good!! It is amazing to see the bins FULL of donations upon arrival and then how efficiently everyone works to get them processed and hung! The team of committed volunteers range in age from teenagers to older individuals… giving their time to make a difference. Taking a tour of the Dracut Distribution Center reinforces this even more; a truly impressive, well-oiled machine!!!
Q: What would you want to tell your family and friends about Catie’s Closet?
A: Gary and I got married in 2018 – second marriages for both of us. We truly did NOT want, or have any need for wedding gifts! In lieu of gifts we asked our friends and family to give donations to Catie’s Closet. Those closest to us know how we feel about Catie’s Closet ? There was over $4000 dollars donated on our behalf – the perfect wedding gift.
Mimi & Gary Thomas, Recurring Catie’s Closet Donors
How can you make a difference?
Learn more about how you can help students in poverty find success beyond their struggles.
Become a recurring donor – Your monthly, quarterly or yearly gift is critical to supporting the continued needs of our students who access our services on an ongoing basis. With recurring support, Catie’s Closet is seen as a safe, dependable place that empowers students to “Be Me” and celebrate what makes them perfectly designed.
As a recurring giver, you are inducted into Catie’s Circle, our recurring giving program.
About Catie’s Closet:
Catie’s Closet provides free clothing, toiletries and other essentials to students in grades prek-12 who are living at or below the poverty line. Students have access to their most basic needs in a discrete and caring way, and in turn, they feel supported, get a boost in their self-esteem, and can focus on school and having fun as a kid.
