A Detailed Summary of an Interview with EcoEquitable's Longest Standing Volunteer: Charlene Elgee

Background and Introduction to EcoEquitable

Charlene was working as a librarian in the federal government and encountered EcoEquitable during a sustainability fair held by her workplace. She was immediately intrigued by the organization and made a mental note that once she retired, she would get involved. She had attended one of their fabric sales which really hooked her in. Within her first 6 months of retirement a few years after first being introduced to Eco, she joined, volunteering in the boutique.

EcoEquitable stood out to Charlene among all the organizations present at the fair. Its mission to save fabric from landfills was especially appealing. Blending environmentally sustainability with textile work strongly resonated with her and made Eco a natural fit.

Early Volunteering Experience

Charlene initially started working in the boutique. She was also a pioneer of Friday drop-in sessions along with other volunteers. These sessions allowed people, often students, to come in for help with sewing projects. People would work on their own pieces alongside others and receive guidance or support. These sessions ran for about 2 years. Some days, the space was packed; other times, no one showed up. With attendance being unpredictable and inconsistent, the initiative eventually died as it was no longer an effective use of resources. 

Transition to Volunteer Board Work

After Friday drop-ins ended, she remained involved by joining the board. She found it difficult to balance board responsibilities with other volunteer activities. Friday drop-ins were attempted again a few years later but failed to attract enough participants. Since then, most of her contributions have been at the board level as a secretary. 

She’s grateful to have been on the board as she gained significant insight into how boards functions and what is required to be an effective board member. Strong Interpersonal skills are a key factor. One has to be able to clearly express their own opinions while also accepting differing viewpoints. Even when she’s disagreed with certain perspectives, she’s learned the importance of supporting fellow board members once a collective decision has been made. Constant learning and adaptation is needed in this realm, but having a strong belief in the organization, its mission and the people it serves has motivated her to stay involved and help keep it going. 

EcoEquitable’s Impact and Sustainability

Charlene views the organization’s role in keeping large amounts of fabric out of landfills to be highly impactful. There is a significant effect on individual lives as well, especially through programs like Sewing for Jobs.

EcoEquitable fosters a sense of togetherness in many areas. She feels this at a board level, but also sees this when attending sales, visiting the boutique or going into the office. There is a welcoming, open and accepting atmosphere where people are constantly engaging with each other. Conversations flow easily and the environment feels inclusive and supportive.

Graduation day for Sewing for Jobs students also highlights Eco’s essence. There is so much joy and pride visible in the women. The ceremony can get emotional and it’s witnessing the celebration of these women by their family, friends and partners that reinforce her commitment to this organization. These moments remind her why her work matters and it’s powerful to see the increased impact over time.

Significant Learnings

Everyone brings something to the table and everyone possesses a diversity of skills, experiences and perspectives. Charlene finds it encouraging to see so many capable and dedicated individuals contributing in different ways. 

She has observed confidence issues, often through imposter syndrome, especially among women. She’s noticed that despite this, there are still contributions of great value and insight. Success still shines through and she wishes that women in particular have a greater belief in their abilities and let go of self-doubt.

Vision for EcoEquitable’s Future

Charlene hopes the organization becomes more self-sustaining for the long-term security of its future. Increased funding will ensure financial balance and help retain dedicated staff and volunteers. Beyond financial stability, she doesn’t think that Eco needs to significantly change its scope. Staying focused on the core mission of keeping textiles out of landfills and supporting women is key. There is no need to branch too far beyond these core values.

To Prospective Volunteers

“Just go for it. Pick a job and just go for it!”

Charlene advises that those considering joining the board do so with the intention of actively contributing. This can be done through participating in committees or taking on concrete tasks rather than attending meetings passively.

The boutique has experienced a lot of positive change with new leadership. The board has evolved as well, and is finally at a place where all necessary bases are covered. She is optimistic about the future and knows that it's a great place to be able to contribute to.