GEKA Murrumbeena 

Garage Sale: a community success

A parent reflection:  Carmen Garrett – Volunteer Parent Group Representative

An environmental sustainability initiative at GEKA Murrumbeena Kindergarten – the garage sale - sold many bargains, but those involved also received more than they bargained for!

“The focus of the GEKA Murrumbeena Garage sale was to educate our kindergarten families and local community, on the value of reusing and rehoming our belongings. But the event ended up being much more.  Organisers were keen to engage the broader community in supporting the kindergarten and to foster a sense of community in the area.

The kindergarten was supported by many individuals and families from our broader community as well as many local businesses. It was helpful to hold the garage sale on the weekend of the garage sale trail initiative and to feel part of an even broader community across the country.

The kindergarten raised over $700, well above the $200 organisers had hoped for, and so much of our preloved goodies were re-homed and kept out of landfill.  The event was supported by kindergarten families, both volunteering on the day and in the lead up with donations, flyers and poster drop offs; the donation of baked goods and those who came down and bought things.  It was great to raise money from supporters in the broader community and to meet so many interesting people that live in our area. 

 A raffle on the day was supported by local businesses (many thanks to Oasis, Moss and Maple, Wines on Poath, Three Little Bakers, Dose One Cafe and Don Pollo Plus Chicken) and provided sellers time to engage with community members when selling tickets. A bake stall with donated cakes and sweet treats was also a hit with the locals.

There were only two car loads of things left over - one went to St Kilda Mums and one went to the Salvos. St Kilda mums were absolutely thrilled to receive our donation - especially in the lead up to Christmas.

What an amazing experience. We are so grateful for our kindergarten community and larger local community. The organisers definitely had warm and fuzzy feelings living in such a supportive and friendly area.  Thank you everyone!”