Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union enjoys sharing the runway with our community. During our Q&A with Sarah Napier, the Cougar Closet Coordinator for Indiana University of Kokomo’s (IUK) Cougar Closet, we learned that this sustainability initiative from the Women in Business and Student Marketing organizations opened in the fall of 2021. We couldn’t wait to share the spotlight with them. Whether IUK students have a job interview, a special event or a networking opportunity, Sarah and the Cougar Closet help IUK students make a strong impression.
What does a day at the Cougar Closet look like for you and the others who help there? I create social media, handle administrative aspects, and work with our faculty advisor on decisions regarding the Cougar Closet. It has become my favorite place on campus while working there in the past year and a half.
Day-to-day volunteers put away donations, steam clothing and help students who come in with clothing needs. Volunteers can also do their homework during their volunteer time when tasks are complete.
How is the Cougar Closet making a difference at IUK and for its students? The mission of the Cougar Closet is truly about sustainability. A New Media Art and Technology student found a few items to use in her capstone fashion show project. We have Education majors who find clothes for student teaching, and nurses have donated gently used IU scrubs for students to use during clinicals.
We want to break any stigma related to utilizing the Cougar Closet. The closet is truly for anyone. Everyone should come in and look at what we have. It’s a rotating cycle as clothes are donated and utilized. Being a blessing is our goal.
What is your biggest need regarding donations? At the moment, our biggest need is plus-sized items. We want the Closet to be all-inclusive.
The Cougar Closet is located in IUK’s Main Building, KO 108. While the operating hours of the Cougar Closet change each semester, donations can be dropped off at the IUK School of Business office in the Main Building, KO 185, Monday through Friday from 9 am to 11:30 am and 1:30 pm – to 4 pm. Contact the Closet by email at ccloset@iu.edu with any questions, or check out the website at kokomo.iu.edu/cougar-closet.
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