About Us
what we do
our story
Since 2016, theExchange has served over 2000 local households, and reduces landfill space by thousands of pounds each year.
OUR MISSION
Through the effective reuse of donated items, theExchange collaborates with local organizations to provide home essentials for community members in need.
OUR VALUES
Collaboration, Dignity, Quality, Sustainability, Teamwork, Volunteerism
YEAR FOUNDED
2016
A program under Shelter Development
a 501(c)(3) nonprofit primarily serving the
La Crosse Coulee Region.
CLIENTS SERVED
Over 2000 local households, since
2016
VOLUNTEERS
theExchange was founded and coordinated
by 4 women. In the first 5 years they grew their
regular volunteer base to over 65. At that time a program director and operations manager were hired to run the program. The co-founders remain deeply involved.
12 individuals have a seat on the board.
theExchange provides donated furniture and household goods to families and individuals transitioning out of homelessness and poverty.
theExchange is driven by volunteers and donations of basic household goods and gently used furniture from the community.
Our team of volunteers carefully inspect the donations when they enter our warehouse so that they meet our quality standard.
We then partner with social service/community advocates to identify and accompany recipients in need. Recipients must have a confirmed residence before they come to ‘shop’ at theExchange. Once an appointment is made, the recipient and advocate are invited to select essential household items, free of charge, to furnish their home. At theExchange, it is very important to us that the clients’ experience is dignified from the moment they arrive at our warehouse to the moment their home is furnished.
If needed we deliver furniture to the recipient.