Get Your Spring Cleaning Done For A Good Cause

With spring just around the corner, the time is now to start thinking about storing winter clothing and preparing for the warmer weather. Motivated and with spring cleaning in mind, you're now wondering what to do with the pinstripe pants suit you bought three years ago and never wore, the leather pumps collecting dust under the bed, and the paisley print scarf that just doesn't really go with anything.

The Junior League of Long Island (JLLI) will gladly relieve you of this problem. Up until March 15, the league is asking Long Islanders to donate business-appropriate clothing and accessories for its First Step Program. JLLI is accepting donations of new and gently-used suits, dresses, shoes, briefcases and appropriate accessories at the JLLI Thrift Shop in Roslyn Village.

The First Step Program, now in its third year, was created to help Long Island women living in transitional homes take the "first step" in re-entering the work force and gaining independence. The women use the free professional clothing for job interviews and beyond. After the clothing has been collected, JLLI will be holding a special two-day event for women from local social service agencies, shelters and food pantries where Junior League members will personally assist them with selecting appropriate clothing for a job interview and career. 

"By selecting business outfits for interviews and the first days on a new job, these women are taking the first step toward financial independence," said Deidra Maleno, president of Junior League of Long Island. "First Step reaffirms the potential of all women to achieve self-sufficiency by helping them transition into the workforce. In these tough economic times, we are thankful for all Long Islanders who pull together to help others in our community gain self-esteem and economic security as they make a fresh start."

In addition to receiving advice on appropriate business attire, the women will be treated to lunch and manicures. Child care will be provided to all attendees for the day at no cost.

Port Washington resident Jennifer Capobianco has been a member of the Junior League of Long Island for five years. She is one of the many volunteers who will be participating in the special two day-event later this month, assisting the women with appropriate clothing selection. Capobianco said she has been collecting clothing donations for First Step from her network of friends and colleagues in Port Washington.

"The Junior League offers women a chance to make a real difference in their community while at the same time providing wonderful opportunities for networking and developing leadership skills," Capobianco said. "First Step is a great example of the Junior League identifying a need in the community and working to fill it by helping Long Island women gain independence and build self-esteem."

Donations are tax deductible and all styles and sizes are appropriate. Donations may be brought to the JLLI Thrift Shop, located at 1395 Old Northern Blvd., in Roslyn. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donations may also be deposited in the Thrift Shop's 24-hour donation bin located at the back of the store.

For information on donations or to refer someone to First Step, contact Andee Kroe at (917) 478-9902, e-mail andeekroe@hotmail.com or visit www.jlli.org.