A Haven of Hidden Gems: The Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange

The Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange (CCRx) is a 501c3 nonprofit that redistributes donated surplus materials and supplies to Chicago teachers, artists, nonprofits, and community groups. Their mission is to reduce waste, spark creativity, and foster environmental stewardship. They achieve this by providing "too good to toss" supplies to teachers, students, and artists, saving materials from landfills and offering them affordable access to creative resources. 

Here's a more detailed look at what they do:

• Donation and Redistribution: CCRx accepts donations of art, school, and office supplies, as well as furniture and other items. They sort and organize these donations and make them available to their network. 
• Community Outreach: They work with local and national businesses to source materials and offer workshops for teachers on creative reuse and project-based learning. 
• Waste Reduction: By giving new life to donated materials, CCRx significantly reduces waste and promotes environmental awareness. 
• Supporting Creativity: They provide resources and inspiration for teachers, artists, and community groups, encouraging creative exploration and innovation. 

Our Founder had the pleasure of volunteering there last week! She thoroughly enjoyed her experience and deeply appreciated the opportunity to make a difference in her local community by doing simple tasks alongside friendly, dedicated staff. She interacted most with their Operations Manager, Tyler, and their Executive Director, Barbara. Here are some quotes she obtained from them.

"Art is political. It's typically one of the first programs to be disregarded or funding cut completely, but that doesn't mean it stops being a necessity to every community. Having a place to redistribute supplies for those passionate about creating a better world is what gives me the hope that my small actions can tip the scales in a positive direction! No one can/should do it alone!" - Tyler

"Why should people support CCRx? Because it is fun, because it is a way for everyone to share resources and support each other while reducing the amount of good stuff that gets tossed into the landfill. We believe that 'trash is just a failure of imagination' so we help find homes for things that are too good to toss, but no longer needed. One person's trash is another's treasure!" - Barbara  

People can support CCRx by donating supplies, shopping the warehouse, taking workshops, volunteering, spreading the word, and giving money.

Upcoming Events:

Saturday May 10th - Card Making Workshop 12-2pm & Mother's Day Artisan Jewelry Sale 10-4pm

CCRx will be active at the Night Out In The Parks hosted by the Chicago Parks District at various parks across the city this summer. Crafts for everyone of all ages using donated materials can show how easy and fun it can be to think differently about our waste in the city! 

We are also hosting workshops at our warehouse location (2124 W. 82nd Place Chicago IL 60620) Saturdays in the summer so join the mailing list and follow all socials to stay up to date as new creative reuse workshops are announced!

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE AT www.creativechirx.org