As Des Moines Swap-O-Rama-Rama expands in Des Moines, we will be able to support other important causes in our community. Here is an outline of our goals for the revenue generated at our 2010 Swap.

Where will the money go? Who does it benefit?

Proceeds generated from our event on April 24th will be divided for the following:

We will be donating all proceeds to Blessman Ministries, Inc. Located in Des Moines, Blessman Ministries is a non-profit organization that works to provide a sustainable way of life for South African orphans of the AIDS crisis. Their projects include feeding programs, eyeglass distribution to children in rural schools, and housing construction.

A portion will also go to support Faythe Levine for her documentary Handmade Nation. You can see her film with us on April 24th for $5!

The expenses leading up to our event include space rental, supplies, advertising, and more. Planners of SORR pay these costs out of their own pocket and will be reimbursed. We are also hoping to set aside some funds for SORR 2011.

What about all the stuff?


All leftover clothing in good condition will be donated to Hope Ministries, which will then be used to meet a variety of needs in our community. Hope provides free clothing to their shelter and recovery residents through vouchers. They also sell donated clothing in their Hope Bargain Center. The proceeds support their food, shelter and recovery programs for the homeless in Des Moines.

How can you help us help others?

1. Show up to the event! $10 and a bag of clothes is not too much for an entire day of learning, crafting, socializing, and fun!

2. Donate to our cause via Paypal. Your donation is tax deductible and VERY much appreciated! Any little bit helps us out immensely.

3. Bring a sewing machine to our event for us to borrow, or donate one for a tax deduction. We do not have a sponsor for sewing machines this year, so the more we have the better! Please email us in advance if you have a machine for us to use.

4. Volunteer. We always need people before, during, and after the event to help us with various tasks. Volunteers receive free admission to the event, swag bags full of goodies from local artists and businesses, and time to participate in the fun! Email us if you would like to sign up as a volunteer.