"Our shop has succeeded far beyond our expectations," says Wendy Serrino, president of the board of the North Shore Exchange. "This incredible collaborative effort between the great ladies of the Woman's Library Club of Glencoe along with the board of the North Shore Exchange, board members of Family Service of Glencoe, and many dedicated donors, consignors, supporters and volunteers has resulted in a thriving resale shop that we're incredibly proud of. Through the hard work and dedication of all of our contributors, we have the opportunity to make a powerful impact in our community and beyond."

A RESALE SHOP REBORN

From the start, the North Shore Exchange was created with a singular vision --  a beautiful shop selling upscale resale merchandise including women's clothing and accessories and home furnishings, with one-third of the proceeds going to Family Service of Glencoe and two-thirds going to charities serving children and families at risk.

The original building, owned by the Woman's Library Club of Glencoe, housed the former Glen Cote Resale Shop. The group, funded by the Woman's Library Club and with the donated help of local architect Scott Javore and interior designer Pam Maher, re-imagined and re-designed the space, outfitting it with the finest finishes including beautiful lighting, an antique display case from Wienecke's Hardware, and stunning wood flooring donated by Claudia and Marcelo Spiesz of Glencoe.  The shop opened on March 5.

"With the help of many, our members seized the opportunity to create something entirely new -- an elegant and upscale shopping experience,” said Peg Malloy, president of the Woman's Library Club of Glencoe.  “And it's all for a wonderful cause -- supporting charities that make a difference in the lives of children and families who need it most. We're thrilled at the success of the shop and how it has allowed new light to shine on the longstanding philanthropic tradition of the Woman's Library Club of Glencoe."

FAMILY SERVICE OF GLENCOE FIRST GRANT RECIPIENT

The North Shore Exchange's first charitable recipient is nonprofit, community agency Family Service of Glencoe.

"Family Service of Glencoe has been at the heart of our village for 99 years," says Roberta Olshansky, vice president of the North Shore Exchange board and a former board member of Family Service of Glencoe. "While the majority of their work is confidential and done behind the scenes, we know that the health of our community is due in large part to their efforts to reach out, support those in their time of need, and strengthen the bonds of this community we share.  We're proud to be a part of making their work possible."

Family Service of Glencoe serves those who live and work in Glencoe - from preschoolers to seniors - with programs and services that prevent, treat and intervene in the areas of social and emotional health.  Grant funds will support FSG's programs and services including individual and family counseling, 24-hour crisis intervention in partnership with Public Safety, Youth and Family Outreach programs, and more.

"We are thrilled at our partnership with the North Shore Exchange, and deeply grateful to be one of their designated charities," said Susan Cowen, LCSW, Executive Director for Family Service of Glencoe. "The Exchange's generosity will support our efforts to create a stronger, healthier and safer community. This grant will allow us to make our services available to all who live and work in Glencoe, including those who might otherwise not be able to afford them, and will make a meaningful impact on our ability to deliver our programs and services to the community we serve."

According to Serrino, the North Shore Exchange believes that in order for children and families to be self-sufficient and empowered members of society, they must have unencumbered access to human services and education.  A set of guidelines was created by the organization to determine the charities it intends to support. The North Shore Exchange has identified multiple domestic charities -- both local and national -- that meet its criteria, and grant applications have been solicited. In the coming few months, the North Shore Exchange will review grant proposals and make recommendations on their status in a rolling fashion.

"There are countless worthy causes and charities," says Serrino. "Much thought has gone into determining the area of impact we feel best aligns with our philanthropic mission. We are thrilled to be able to support our partner, Family Service of Glencoe, with a $25,000 grant, and look forward to making an impact in the lives of children and families with the greatest need through the distribution of the remaining $50,000.  With more exciting announcements to come, we thank the community for its support of this most meaningful venture."

 For more information about the North Shore Exchange including how to donate or consign items, how to arrange for a donation pickup, and how to join the NSE's email list, visit www.northshoreexchange.org. 

ABOUT THE NORTH SHORE EXCHANGE:

The North Shore Exchange is an upscale resale shop featuring an edited collection of women's designer clothing and accessories, as well as beautiful home furnishings and decor.  As a 501 (c)(3), all of the boutique's profits will benefit charities and nonprofit organizations helping families and children with the greatest need and our own Family Service of Glencoe. For more information visit North Shore Exchange's website at www.northshoreexchange.org