Catie’s Closet

Boston Tutoring Services is introducing a new series of blogposts about local nonprofit organizations. Our goals are to raise awareness about their work and to share how other people can get involved. If you or someone you know is part of, has worked with, or knows about a local nonprofit, please contact us and share your experiences. All submissions are welcome!

In the fourth part of our nonprofit series, Boston Tutoring Services interviews Mickey Cockrell, Executive Director of Catie’s Closet. If you want to check out our last interview in the series, you can access it here.

Boston Tutoring Services: Tell me a little about your organization.
Mickey Cockrell: Catie’s Closet was born out of two events. The first in the winter of 2009 when we learned of the plight of Lowell High School students who were homeless and trying to make it through a day. As a family of Lowellians we were just shocked. The second event was the passing of my niece Catie. She was born with an unknown disease which was eventually named at the age of 14. She dealt with a lifetime of surgeries but never viewed them as an obstacle to achieving her dreams. Her dream was becoming a writer and an educator and ensuring education was available to everyone. She passed at the age of 20 and was a sophomore at Bridgewater State University.

When Catie passed, Lowell High asked to start a scholarship in her name. My sister, Anne-Marie, thought we could help more people with a bigger idea. And Catie’s Closet was born in 2010 and became a 501c3 organization in May of 2011. It was started by Anne-Marie and her sisters and her family.

BTS: What are the organization’s biggest goals?
MC: Our goal is to provide an in-school resource for clothing and basic necessities to students who are homeless or living below the poverty level, in order to give kids a chance to fit in, feel valued, and focus on their education, and to ultimately reduce the dropout rate and impact absenteeism.

BTS: Does your organization host or launch any special events throughout the year?
MC: Yes, we have an annual Gala in March. It will be held on March 21, 2015. We are also holding a HUGE drive on September 10th this year to coincide with the National Day of Giving.

BTS: What are some of the most difficult challenges and setbacks your organization has faced and/or continues to face?
MC: Our biggest challenge came in 2011 when we realized the demand was so large and we had to figure out a way to scale the operation. We had to find a Distribution Center and expand our volunteer base and create more structure to the organization. It has been a tremendous success because of the support of so many in the community and even extended community. Ongoing challenges include procuring some of the product we need, such as toiletries, socks, underwear, and sneakers. These items are purchased new for our students and require resources.

BTS: What is the most gratifying aspect of your work?
MC: Seeing the results! Students Pre-K through 12 grade getting a chance to grow and attain their dreams. Providing a life-line that changes their outlook on their future. I will never get tired of it and never stop helping everyone who needs our support.

Also, I feel immense gratitude for the many Closet Champions who support us in every way. We couldn’t do what we do without the donations of time, clothing, commitment and support.

BTS: What is your favorite memory since working at the organization?
MC: SO difficult to choose one because every hurdle we tackle just fills my heart and touches me deeply… But I call to mind every day the story of a young lady who said, “You helped me at my lowest point in life and I will never forget it. I want to pay it back in any way I can.” That is what motivates me every day.

BTS: What are some of the organization’s greatest accomplishments?
MC: Honestly, providing services to 22 schools and being available to 12,000 students now and growing. Making a difference in our students’ futures.

BTS: Can other people get involved?
MC: Everyone can get involved! Host a drive for our needed items. Fund a new school–it costs $4500 to open a school. Like us on Facebook and spread the word to your social network: www.facebook.com/catiesclosetorganization. Join our email list and stay connected: www.catiescloset.org. Let’s make an impact together!

“Someday, we must make education available to everyone; it shouldn’t be a privilege… Education got me started, got me motivated, and kept me going. It is the framework of my confidence and goals and is the foundation of a strong and intelligent generation.” – Catie