The Karma of Clothing Project was born in 2017, founded by Mary Lou Andre of Dressing Well Boston. The project represents an incredible collaboration between The Dressing Well Charitable Foundation and the Needham Community Council, whose mission is to create a circle of giving that allows for the positive karma, generosity and influence of donors to benefit others who are in need of assistance improving their lives.

Clients are referred by local 501c organizations who help people in need. Participants receive a $100 gift certificate to shop for clothes and accessories donated and professionally curated for the “Karma closet” and the extraordinarily well-stocked Thrift Store. All clients receive the support of a personal stylist and shopping team that works with them to build a wardrobe that compliments their lifestyle. Most leave with more than twenty articles of clothing, and more importantly, a boost of self-confidence and a sense of readiness for the next steps on their journey. In a circle of giving, the gift certificates are purchased from the Council through fundraisers and donations, which also helps to support the Council’s many other wonderful community programs such as the food pantry, medical equipment loans and transportation assistance.

I first learned about Karma in late 2022, just as the program was getting back on its feet after a hiatus due to the pandemic. I knew immediately that this project spoke to me and that I absolutely wanted to get involved! My first experience with the program was on January 21, 2023, and it was magical. Watching eyes light up, smiles beam and the incredible twirl of a black-and-white dress that fit just right, I knew that this day was about so much more than clothing. The excitement and gratitude in the room felt so palpable that I wanted to bottle it up. This project is a story about the beauty of community and sisterhood, and it serves as a reminder that even a small act of kindness can go a long way toward making someone’s day a little brighter. Mary Lou was really onto something when she envisioned this program, and she is one hot ticket, let me tell you!

A bonus for my experience with this project was the opportunity to contribute a selection of handcrafted earrings for clients to choose from to enhance their wardrobe. If I have ever said a person can make jewelry sparkle, now understand this to be true in a whole new way. I have never seen moonstone and aquamarine look as beautiful as they did today. My heart is full, warm, grateful, humbled and inspired by the many wonderful people sharing the room.

Do you live in or near Needham, MA and have gently used (or new!) clothing or accessories to donate? Please consider the Needham Community Council. Donations are accepted six days per week, without an appointment. And if you’d like to get involved in the Karma of Clothing Project, please email me and I will help you get in touch with some pretty awesome people. The Karma of Clothing Projects happens one Saturday each month.