Upon Jesse’s arrival into the office after his birthday, we discussed what he did for himself on his special day. He said, “I went to the thrift store!” as he showed off his new shirt. As we discussed our fav thrift stores, Jesse brought up an interesting point- who does the thrift store support and/or who does the thrift store NOT support. Yes…this does seem to be important when you are thinking about ethical clothing, yet- I must admit- I had not thought about that at all. If we are shopping for ethical treatment of people, does your thrift store support the same values as you? My Law and Order brain now wants to investigate EVERY thrift store in Birmingham and report what I find out.
First on the list, Sozo Trading Company. Located in the old Mazer’s building on 41st Street in Avondale, Sozo is a huge, yet hidden, gem. I walked in to reclaimed wood décor and clear organization of clothing, home goods, and shoes. The “J” in me was immediately pleased. The space is also big enough for people to rent booths to sell their items. I will admit, I was not as intrigued by this; however, props to Sozo for their creative thinking. I quickly picked out at least ten items. While only two worked, the two were pretty fab- a leopard print designer skirt and a brown, springy skirt. With more time, I am sure there would have been more finds, but this was an investigation…not a shopping trip (hard wink).
As I checked out (with a total bill of $4!), I learned more about their mission, which you do have the option in which to donate (bar codes are on the checkout counter for $1, $3, and $5- pretty clever). I told the woman it was my first time there and she shared that they help children in Uganda, Africa. Alright, sounds good so far. Kids in Uganda are important. I stated that I also worked for a non-profit close by. She did not seem interested; however, she did give Janet a hand woven doll, since she donated $5 with her purchase (an adorable, Aztec-ish print dress for $2).
I went on my L&O mission to find out more…well, I just hit the web, so I’m no Lennie Briscoe yet. Sozo Trading provides support to the organization Sozo Children whose mission is “Empowering vulnerable children to become thriving leaders for Jesus Christ.” They have housing, clean water, and programs to serve children in Uganda.
While I am glad to learn about the impact they have in Africa, I was curious about the impact on Birmingham. Their website states that they serve “as an epicenter of inclusion embracing the diversity of our community. The store not only supports an international impact through Sozo Children, but vastly impacts the city of Birmingham locally. Centered in a thriving downtown district, Sozo Trading Co. impacts the community through organizational partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and building lasting relationships with the residents of our city. Our relational based approach constructs an environment where people can truly feel safe and welcomed. Sozo Trading Co. has been incredibly fortunate to have hundreds of volunteers from our community offering their time and resources to create this amazing space. Since our inception, we have partnered with multiple organizations in Birmingham to clothe the homeless, provide books to local schools, and assist victims of tragedy. We are thankful for a collaboration with local restoration programs to provide participants with a volunteer opportunity to reintegrate into the workplace. Sozo Trading Co. is extremely grateful to support the work of Sozo Children internationally, but also deeply proud of the impact we have locally in the city of Birmingham.”
I now have to step up my investigation even further. I am determined to find out with which organizations they have partnered. If it is Firehouse Shelter, I’m down (thanks, Firehouse- you rule). This will take a little more time and I will definitely report back. In the meantime, more of the Crisis Center staff have checked out the shopping and it looks like they are pleased.
To find out more on your own, be a Lennie and check out http://www.sozotrading.org/.
“Oh! They flew Delta!”
McGlam Gives a Damn 