We packed into the Sail Loft (a favorite sailor's pub) and we were able to fill the boxes with eighty-eight coats, plus hats and scarves. The quality of coats was astounding and humbling (noted and appreciated by the organization's representative who attended). I can't thank those who attended enough, and for those of you who emailed me telling me about your local donations. A thanks to all of you and your generosity.
Of note was one young woman who had no extra coats at home, so she went to a local store and bought six new children's coats off the rack. We had a diverse turn-out, and I'm deeply grateful for all who attended. Phillip (a regular commenter to Boxing The Compass) and his wife were instrumental in the effort, and it would not have happened without them.
Bay Cove is directing these coats to programs assisting people in entering or returning to the workforce. I do believe that enabling those who are able to participate in commerce of any sort will benefit everyone. The large number of children's coats will likely be distributed within hours of me writing this.
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I was in Philadelphia last week, and though the Mainline Sportsman was down for the count with the influence of influenza, I was able to have a perfectly pleasant evening with the gentleman behind the blog Brohammas. We talked away the afternoon and well into the evening, and he was as adventurous with his willingness to eat strange foods as I was. He's built like a fighter from rugged Western stock and judging by his build, he was likely an acute terror to his rugby opponents. Saddled atop his concrete shoulders is a highly intelligent mind and an approachable personality. A dedicated father and husband, he embodies the good side of being analytical and the analytical side of being observant. We hit it off very easily.
How does this tie into the coat drive? We talked for a while about barriers both real and perceived. Lastnight, the representative from the coat charity told me that clothing is actually one of the more significant barriers to entering into the job market. I will spare you my lecture about how local licensing and permitting deters budding entrepreneurs, but the clothing issue as a barrier is more real than I had realized as it pertains to the entry rungs on the ladder.
