In today’s episode of Smart Living, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Joy Kline, the Executive Director of Treasures 4 Teachers. This non-profit is a beacon of support for educators, providing them with essential supplies at a fraction of the cost, while simultaneously promoting sustainability by redirecting items destined for landfills.
A Community-Centric Initiative
Founded in 2003, Treasures 4 Teachers emerged from a dual concern: teachers’ need for classroom supplies and the waste generated by businesses discarding usable materials. The organization offers a unique solution by accepting donations of business supplies and other items, enabling teachers and community members to access affordable resources.
Becoming a member is straightforward. For just $35 a year, teachers gain entry to this treasure trove, with a slightly higher membership fee of $45 for those who are not educators, allowing families and individuals to support the cause and enjoy thrifty finds.
Inside the Treasures Store
Located in Tempe, the Treasures 4 Teachers warehouse is a sprawling 18,000 square-foot space filled with two distinct shopping zones. One features individually priced items, while the other offers a $5-fill-up-bucket option, where patrons can fill a three-gallon bucket with various supplies. From books and paper to crayons and pens, the $5 bucket offers unbeatable value and supports a great cause.
Additionally, the organization has recently expanded with the Treasure Box Thrift Store, a space dedicated to gently used items that don’t fit the teacher supply model. This thrift store not only provides the community with a fun and affordable shopping experience but also channels proceeds back into supporting the teacher supply store.
Donations and Sustainability
Businesses and individuals alike play a crucial role in sustaining Treasures for Teachers. Companies such as SRP and numerous school districts contribute by donating surplus or outdated items, thus saving on disposal costs and reducing landfill waste. The organization’s team even picks up donations directly from businesses, making it easier for them to support this innovative mission.
Treasures for Teachers truly embodies the philosophy that one person’s trash can be another’s treasure. Teachers visiting the store often repurpose items in creative and resourceful ways, from turning outdated software CDs into sun catchers to transforming foam scraps into classroom art projects.
Upcoming Exciting Events
To ensure everyone can enjoy what Treasures 4 Teachers has to offer, the organization is launching themed late-night shopping events starting August 21st, with themes such as “Joan Jet- Put Another Dime in That Juice Box.” These events promise a vibrant atmosphere with juice boxes, special giveaways, and extended shopping hours.
Moreover, Treasures 4 Teachers invites the public to participate in creative reuse nights, where old vinyl albums are transformed into artful bowls. Such events highlight not just the practicality but the creativity inherent in reuse and recycling.
Supporting a More Connected Community
Treasures 4 Teachers is more than just a store; it’s a community hub. As Joy Klein shared, the organization strives to offer educators a warm, welcoming experience. By reducing financial burdens and fostering a sense of community, Treasures for Teachers stands alongside educators, helping them focus on teaching rather than worrying about classroom supplies.
To learn more about Treasures for Teachers and how you can contribute, visit my blog at smartshopperdaphne.com. As your smart shopper, I’m passionate about spotlighting organizations like Treasures for Teachers that empower individuals and families while nurturing sustainable practices.
Stay thrifty and smart!
Treasures 4 Teachers
3025 South 48th Street
Suite 101
Tempe, AZ 85282
480.751.1122
