Here are some tips to help you get started on your organized life!
IN GENERAL:
If you haven’t used it in a year, you don’t need it. If you think that the item(s) have value then try to sell the item on Craigslist, EBAY, ETSY, at auction or in an estate sale. If it doesn’t sell, donate it at the end of the day. Donating is a good way to provide to someone in need that might find the items to be a treasure. Many organizations you donate to recycle broken items such as electronics, clothing, & food. Some of the organizations I like to support with donated items are listed farther down this page.
YOUR WARDROBE:
Get in the buff and try EVERYTHING on.
It doesn’t belong there if:
-You think it’s not flattering. (No matter the original price tag!)
-You don’t LOVE how it looks on you.
-Doesn’t represent who you are today.
-Too big or too small.
*If you’re struggling, put those pieces in a box or turn the hanger the opposite direction as all the others. Donate the items in 6 months if you have not worn them. No excuses!
*Have a friend or spouse or myself help give you an honest answer.
-Organize closet & drawers by color.
-Give items to a friend, neighbor, colleague that day if they will want it, or sell it / donate it if you find no takers.
Fact: Most people only wear 20% of what is in their closet!
OWN A SHREDDER:
-For tax purposes keep important documents for 7 years. For example: for the year 2013, keep papers after 2007. IRS would probably say to keep certain documents indefinitely, such as sale of a house or certain other properties. It pertains to roll-over and capital gains tax exemptions. You will need to look into what is currently required.
-Other “Keep” examples include business licenses, receipts, bank statements, billing statements in this 7-year time frame if a business owner. If NOT a business owner, keep only paperwork that pertains to taxes, receipts (needed in case of repairs, returns or replacing), and important documents.
-Shred all paperwork with your details (such as name & address).
-Note: Most bank statements are available online to print if needed upon an audit, so that may be another pile you can shred.
*If storing items in a garage or attic, places where rodents like to be, store wisely, not in a bunch of unlabeled paper boxes. Mice love paper!
*If you think someone else, such as a family member, would like something you have that you don’t use or enjoy, give it to them NOW. Do not store it until you are no longer alive or it is no longer a desired item.
Go through your pantry and/or cupboards to remove expired or unused items. For example: A can of unopened kidney beans, spices, corn bread, fruit cake, or bottle(s) of hard alcohol that have been there for 6 months plus could be donated to a neighbor, someone in need, etc.
DONATE TO CHARITIES:
You can donate your unneeded things to various charities. As a company based in Los Angeles, these are some of our favorite local charities. You are also welcome to donate to any other charity of your choice.
100% of the Santa Monica shop’s sales are donated to 13 local charities via annual, vetted grants.
2. LA Toy Loan
Since 1935 this organization has loaned toys to children who cannot afford them. All that is required is the signature of a responsible adult and a child can borrow a toy from anyone of this group’s 45+ centers throughout LA County.
3. Disabled Veterans Charities
This charity operates thrift stores to raise funds to support disabled veterans in need. And, they make doing good; convenient – they will come to your house and pick up large items.
4. Children’s Lifesaving Foundation
Maria D’Angelo’s much-lauded organization works to stabilize families in need through a comprehensive approach that saves families in crisis from falling through society’s cracks.
This is a project of OPCC that pairs at-risk youth with homeless animals both of whom benefit from the bonding and training that the young people provide to their four-legged friends.
This is a community center for sweatshop workers and their families located near Skid Row.
This is a service Catholic Charities of Los Angeles that has served homeless and low-income families in the LAX area since 1987.
Provides quality medical care to uninsured and under-insured Angelinos at their seven clinics that serve 40,000+ patients annually.
9. Angel Interfaith Network (aka Project Angel)
Provides housing assistance, relocation, transportation and supplies for needy families with babies born at LA County/USC Medical Center.
School supplies of all sorts – except textbooks, which are issued by the school – are welcomed.
Shelters will usually welcome your old towels and blankets to use as bedding for dogs.
12. YMCA
The YMCA offers vocational training and other resources to empower specific chapter’s neighbors bridge gaps and overcome obstacles.
For 50+ years this leading mental health non-profit has offered counseling services to those in need. They serve approximately 400 people per week.
You can find out about a myriad of LA organizations HERE in case none of my favorites are to your liking.
LASTLY, SOME FINAL TIPS:
*If storing items in a garage or attic, places where rodents like to be, store wisely. Don’t store in a bunch of unlabeled paper boxes. Mice love paper!
*If you think someone else, such as a family member, would like something you have that you don’t use or enjoy, give it to them NOW. Do not store it until you are no longer alive or it is no longer a desired item.
-Go through your pantry and/or cupboards to remove expired or unused items. For example: A can of unopened kidney beans, spices, corn bread, fruit cake, or bottle(s) of hard alcohol that have been there for 6 months plus could be donated to a neighbor, someone in need, etc.
COMPANIES I RECOMMEND:
These are some of the companies I work with and trust. Be sure to tell them that Stacy sent you.
From small jobs to international moves, Aussie Movers will get the job done. You can visit their website to get an estimate, or call them at 310.709.1331. Be sure to tell them Stacy sent you!
2. Confidential Data Destruction
Make the smart, secure, and reliable choice when disposing of your old sensitive documents by using Confidential Data Destruction Company, a shredding company that specializes in identity and information protection. You can contact them at 310.566.9799, and be sure to mention My Friend Stacy!
3. Haute Seconds Designer Resale
Do you have designer clothes you never wear that are simply taking up space? Sell them on consignment! You can contact Haute Seconds Designer Resale at 310.828.6500, or click here to send them an email. Let them know My Friend Stacy sent you!