Last spring, The Help Group launched Silverlining, a resale boutique offering new, vintage and gently used designer clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and children.
The nonprofit organization has four schools for autistic and developmentally challenged children in Culver City and Sherman Oaks.
Grant money from the California Department of Education help pay the students’ wages. Proceeds from the sale of the clothing go back to the schools.
On Feb. 12 from 4 to 8 p.m. The Help Group will host “Girls’ Night Out” a shopping night offering customers a chance to browse the latest arrivals of brand new couture clothing, shoes and accessories.
Silverlining, located at 12211 Washington Blvd., serves as an innovative vocational training center for students with special needs. This invaluable work experience is designed to enable students to increase their level of independence and self-confidence.
“The goal is to get the kids skills to find competitive employment,” said Susan Berman, Help Group chief operating officer. “In this economy it’s hard to get job experience, especially for our kids.”
Berman got the idea for Silverlining after a winter jacket drive in 2009, when she saw an exorbitant outpouring of donations.
Help Group schools have job-training programs at local senior homes and supermarkets, but Berman realized there were no opportunities for the students to gain retail experience.
At the Culver City store, students will work in floor sales, run the cash register and behind the scenes washing and sorting items.
This real-life work experience helps the students develop the life skills and tools they need to secure employment.
“This is one of the many new initiatives being launched at The Help Group that seeks to broaden the range of opportunities for young people with special needs. This venture has the added beauty of benefiting the students, those who donate to the store and our community, a silver lining for all,” said Dr. Susan Berman chief operating officer.
“It’s fun working here because I love clothes and I love The Help Group and I love the awareness of the ability within the disability. It makes me feel amazing, happy, excited and motivated,” said Help Group student, Wyatt.
Silverlining’s volunteers include interior designer and Summit View parent, Sue Laviolette, who has graciously donated her services to design the store windows.
“We love being a part of something that teaches kids how to be self-sufficient through designing and doing something creative. We’re just thrilled,” said American Rag CIE President Susan Starr.
In a relatively short period of time, Silverlining has become a destination-shopping site. With features in the Los Angeles Business Journal and on Suzanne O’Connor’s BargainsLA website, Silverlining has been recognized by some of Los Angeles’ most savvy bargain hunters.
“The quality of product here is terrific, with much of it in mint to near mint condition and labels running from couture to trendy. There’s something for everyone here in any budget range from $5 on up, and the deals are eye popping.” said O’Connor.