Frequently Asked Questions:
What the heck is the MaiRai Circle?
It is a clothing sharing circle, like the old fashioned hand-me-down circles in the country, but tweaked slightly for urban dwellers. This circle was started by a mom who saw a need and wanted to help others. She named it for her oldest god-daughter and her son.
How do I become a member?
Read the membership requirements and if you think it applies to you, contact the coordinator on the "Contact Us" tab.
What does this interview entail?
The interview is very informal, meeting for coffee somewhere, or even at your home.
Why so informal?
Chatting with someone over coffee will tell you more about their lives, likes, and dislikes than any formal interview. It is much less stressful, and as a bonus you get to drink coffee.
If accepted as a member, what are my responsibilities?
You must agree to take care of the stuff to the best of your ability, and return it when you are done with it. You must agree to keep in contact with the coordinator, and ensure that they have a current address and phone number. You must agree that anyone you refer to the coordinator is a good person who will do the above if also accepted as a member. Referrals reflect upon your character.
Why would I not be accepted as a member?
This sharing circle is quite new, and run out of an attic. This is only the third level for it, and the first time that it is going semi-private. There may not be the size of clothing you are needing, as only so many of a size for each gender can be accepted.
Who the heck are you to limit who gets to be a member?!??
I am the coordinator. It is my stuff, and my attic. MaiRai Circle is NOT a registered charity, and as such is private property.
What happens to my donated stuff?
It gets used over and over again by many families until completely worn out. Then it becomes a rag for cleaning. Items that don't fit a need within the MaiRai Circle will be cleaned and donated to other charities, assistance groups, and non-profit agencies in the area.
How does my stuff get used over and over?
MaiRai Circle has tried to set up a cascade-type of effect, where items flow from one child to the next as they all change sizes. This is why only a certain amount of children of each gender and size can be accepted.
I have pets/I smoke: can I still donate stuff?
Yes, please! All things are cleaned and inspected when first accepted, before being sorted.
Why the soft spot for military, first response, and special needs kids?
The coordinator retired from the military, and has many friends and family in the above three .
What are first response?
They are police, fire fighters, paramedics, nurses (especially NICU), and other medical personnel.