Our Clothing Closet has reopened on Mondays from 10am-1pm at South Hills Church of the Nazarene after several months of closure due to our Bethel Park facility renovation. We’re thrilled to welcome back our clients and volunteers!
While our Clothing Closet is overseen by our basic needs director and coordinator, the operation is primarily driven by dedicated volunteers, led by Jan.
Jan began volunteering in SHIM’s Clothing Closet ten years ago. She found out about the program when she was looking for somewhere to donate clothes. Always eager to help her community, Jan signed up to work. When she first started volunteering, she was surprised by the significant need for clothing in the community. That need has only grown, and Jan is happy to help provide clothing to local families.
“It has been one of the greatest experiences of my life.”
Jan’s history in retail and insurance helps her manage tasks in the Clothing Closet. She has great organizational skills and loves working with the other volunteers.
“Every volunteer is dedicated. The group gets along well and would do anything for each other.”
Jan not only welcomes clients who shop at SHIM’s Clothing Closet, but also encourages people in her neighborhood to utilize this vital service. When she sees families that she thinks may be in need, she strikes up a conversation and tells them about SHIM’s resources.
“There are so many things you can do that don’t cost money, and volunteering is one of them. I would want agencies like SHIM to exist if I were the one in need.” 
A native of the South Hills, Jan lived on Park Avenue as a child, right down the road from SHIM’s Bethel Park facility. She and her husband of 55 years have now lived in South Park for more than 40 years. Her family is civically engaged, and Jan has been a leader in improving her community. When her kids were younger, she established and coached the first girls’ soccer team in South Park. She ran a Meals on Wheels program and volunteered in a Dementia unit, where she brought puppies to bring joy to the residents.
Jan’s compassion for the people SHIM serves is clear. She loves watching families grow and notes that the clients are very giving. With so many disheartening stories in the news, Jan wants to share the good.
“The people are a blessing. One client who attends with her mom and autistic son brought in flowers to say thanks.”
At age 78, Jan plans to keep volunteering for as long as she can. We’re so grateful to have her as part of our team of neighbors helping neighbors!
Find out how to join our volunteer team.
