Blog post: ‘Why I volunteer at Choices’
By Sophy Lewis, Choices Intern
It has been such a pleasure watching the boutique at Choices grow and develop through a major move to Kings House. We’ve had to adjust to in-person appointments and had an influx of demand for our services. Boutique days are long, they are filled with carrying boxes of clothing, welcoming and caring for clients and sorting through piles of donations. When I get home (before collapsing, shattered, on my bed at the end of the day) I am filled with a sense of fulfillment in the knowledge that our clients leave satisfied with a financial and emotional weight lifted off their shoulders.
The thing that I find most unique about Choices is the desire for connection with clients. Our team aims to create a calming and safe atmosphere which is an experience that many of our clients describe as a privilege to receive. We take pride in simple acts such as offering tea or coffee, choosing not to rush through appointments, and spending time getting to know each person. We know this really makes a difference in the level of connection we achieve.
Our Boutique team begins the day by discussing the appointments that have been scheduled so that we can set the rooms up with clothes and equipment. Again, we carefully consider in the experience we create by neatly folding clothes and clearly displaying many options (depending on the amount of donations we have), hanging dresses and coats on rails, and laying out toys and books on shelves. We want to create a feeling that resembles the welcoming experience of walking into a boutique with a personal shopper.
We aim to make our clients feel special giving space for conversation as well as more pressing immediate needs. Appointments are slow and we are encouraged to take our time so that the client does not feel pressed. Each person can take things at a leisurely pace, sipping coffee and browsing clothes. After items have been selected and we've said our goodbyes we prepare for the next appointment.
We try to tailor each appointment to the client creating a unique experience each time, again reinforcing a boutique like experience. Each week at Choices is filled with new challenges and joys. We meet such wonderful people who are so appreciative and filled with happiness at the end of appointments (and although it may sound cliché) that really is why we do what we do!
Sophy has given the past year to interning at Choices and we’re incredibly grateful for her commitment to supporting the families we work with. She has been a valuable member of the team and we wish her all the best in her endeavors as she finishes her internship at the end of the month. Thank you Sophy!