How to Recycle Unusual Items II
4. Computers Don't throw it out! Even if it is obsolete for you, it can be just what someone else needs. Your computer can be refurbished and used for training disadvantaged individuals in technical fields or sent to schools for education. Many schools have Internet access to aid learning, but can't afford the PC to connect! The end-all source to find where to donate your computer is the PEP LIST. http://www.microweb.com/pepsite/Recycle/... Just be sure you donate it before it gets too old. An IBM from 1983 may be recyclable, but there isn't much hope it could be used for education purposes - unless it is a museum piece.
5. Tennis shoes Sure, you can turn in the old togs to a local charity if they are used but usable - but what happens when the poor things just fall apart and your dog won't even chew on them? Then it's time for the NIKE reuse-a-shoe program. Unless your tennis shoes have flashing lights or metal cleats, they can be returned to NIKE and NIKE will grind up the shoe, recycle it and use the material to create synthetic basketball courts, tennis courts and padding under hardwood basketball courts. Your shoes can be any type of athletic shoe (expect lights and cleats) and can be any brand. Check out the reuse-a-shoe program and see if there is a drop-off site near you. http://www.wastediversion.org/ReuseAShoe...
6. Formal wear/clothing and shoes/ Business attire Have one of those bridesmaid's dresses that wasn't actually all that bad, but that you'll never wear again? How about a lovely gown that was pre-baby or that you just no longer want? Well, you can always sell it on consignment and make a few bucks, or you could donate it to a local teen who needs a prom or formal dress but can't afford one. Many states have a Cinderella Project http://www.cinderellaproject.com/ or Glass Slipper http://www.glassslipperproject.org or Princess Project http://www.princessproject.org/ where you can donate your old formal gowns, shoes and accessories.
If you do not want to keep your wedding gown and pass it down, it can be donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation and re-sold to earn money to fight breast cancer via Brides Against Breast Cancer. Check out http://www.makingmemories.org/
We all know that we can donate regular clothing, shoes and accessories to a local charity. But we don't often think about specifically donating business clothing. It can be difficult for financially strapped folks to afford a new suit for that big interview. Consider donating old clothing, accessories, toiletries, briefcases and handbags to a second hand shop specializing in business attire such as suitablity at http://www.suitablityma.org/ or http://www.dressforsuccess.org/
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