Earlier this year a new organization came to town that our family was oh so very excited about. Seeds of Caring is a non-profit dedicated to creating little do-gooders (ages 2 - 12) by providing easily digestible service projects for kids and parents alike. Their Anywhere Projects can be done…you guessed it, anywhere, and their larger service projects are a beautiful way to get involved in the great community.

I was so excited to connect with Blair Everett, the Indianapolis Program Manager and am even MORE EXCITED to share their mission and ways to get involved through the following conversation.

We are big Seeds of Caring fans and originally heard about it from friends in Columbus, where it originated. What need did you see in Indianapolis that prompted you to start a second outpost?

When we realized we were ready to expand, our Board of Directors dove deep into data to figure out which city had a growing population of young families who wanted to give back as well as plenty of opportunity to help meet real community needs. Hard data led us to Indy but since getting to know the city, our hearts agree that this is a kind community where Seeds of Caring will thrive!

Organized | RESOURCES, Organized | PARENTHOODMaria BaerAugust 31, 2023The Baer Minimalist, LLCKids, Donate, do good, communtiyComment

DONATION RESOURCE // Random Acts of Flowers

In every home we organize, there is that one cabinet (generally high up above the fridge) where vases go to live for eternity. When we find their forgotten hiding place, I’m always quick to mention Random Acts of Flowers (RAF) to clients, as there is such a HUGE need for vases to support their mission.

For years RAF has graced our donation guide, but we’ve never had the chance to share their story here. Thank you to Meggie Dials, Board Chair (and all around amazing steward of Indianapolis) for sharing her experience with RAF below.

What need did you see in the community that led you to get involved with Random Acts of Flowers (RAF)?

Many years ago, I started an organization called The Sussy Project where I took nominations for deserving people, and would "surprise someone with kindness" by sending them a "sussy" (defined as a gift given for no reason). The gift was not large in monetary value, but it showed that person that someone was thinking of them and felt they could use a smile. As life got busier for myself, the organization dissolved but my passion for random acts of kindness did not. When I was approached about a board position for Random Acts of Flowers, it felt like a natural fit. What a simple mission! And 5+ years later, I am finishing up my second year as Board President and truly just love what we do.

Organized | RESOURCESMaria BaerJune 6, 2023The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonation Resources, DonateComment

DONATION RESOURCE // 91 Place

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Karynn Adamowicz, Development & Communications for 91 Place, after being introduced by a mutual friend/client/supporter. After bonding over our commonly mispronounced names (“Maria pronounced Mariah” and “Karynn not Karen”), the conversation flowed right into the incredible work that 91 Place is doing inside of the Indianapolis community.

If you aren’t familiar with 91 Place (or even if you are), I encourage you to read the following post because this organization is doing so. much. good. It is amazing to see what can happen when a passionate individual has an incredible idea and gets to work making great things happen.

Organized | RESOURCESMaria BaerMay 30, 2023The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonation Resources, DonateComment

20 Days of Giving // A Printable Checklist

In honor of National Gratitude Month, we wanted to share our guide to Donate + Do Good this holiday season. Because after all, isn’t that a huge part of what this season is about?

Doing yourself the favor of decluttering your space before the gifting season gets underway, while benefiting our community in the process is something that is near and dear to our hearts.

We’ve created a printable guide (click on the image below to download your very own copy) and would love to hear all of the little ways you impact local in the coming weeks.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves this holiday season and work to give back while we also take notice of the bounty that each of us is fortunate enough to have.

Organized | RESOURCESMaria BaerNovember 10, 2022The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonate, Holidays, DeclutterComment

DONATION RESOURCE // G.L.A.M.

Organized | RESOURCESKamy MitchellDecember 17, 2021The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonation Resources, DonateComment

DONATION RESOURCE // Mars Hill Arts Center

Have you ever looked inside your craft box and thought to yourself, what on Earth will I ever use these for? Maybe you have a pack of pipe cleaners or googly eyes, or maybe even a whole stack of construction paper? Well have we got news for you - we’ve located the perfect place for you to put all of your crafting supplies to good use!

Organized | RESOURCESKamy MitchellNovember 19, 2021The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonation Resources, Donate, Holidays, CraftsComment

DONATION RESOURCE // Helping Veterans And Families (HVAF)

Organized | RESOURCESKamy MitchellNovember 11, 2021The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonation Resources, DonateComment

DONATION RESOURCE // Indianapolis Animal Care Services

Calling ALL animal lovers! I have the perfect donation spot for you! Whether you have a pet, or have a soft spot for animals, I think you’ll love the opportunities to get involved here.

Organized | RESOURCESKamy MitchellOctober 12, 2021The Baer Minimalist, LLCDonation Resources, DonateComment

How to Have a Healthy Relationship with Your Possessions

Have you ever been so close to donating something, and are suddenly overwhelmed with guilt? Maybe you tell yourself, “This was a gift from so and so - I can’t get rid of it!” Or maybe it was an heirloom passed down from your grandmother? Or an item you spent a little too much money on so you feel that you have to hang on to it? If you’ve ever experienced any of this, you are not alone!

A few months back I had the honor of doing an interview with Indy Maven on this exact topic, so I thought I’d give you a glimpse into the article with some of my extended answers!

Organized | LIFE, Organized | SPACESMaria BaerJuly 16, 2021The Baer MinimalistDonation Resources, DonateComment

2019 Indianapolis Donation Guide

I continue to be introduced to incredible local organizations (and a handful of national + international organizations) that tirelessly work to put your donated items into the hands of the most deserving individuals.

My hope is that you share this guide with family and friends, post in your neighborhood Facebook group, or print it, laminate it and post inside of a cabinet door! Then, take things one step further, and think through how you might be able to tackle some of the spaces in your own home where items are gathering dust.

Ultimately, I hope this guide serves as a reminder that those items that are stacked up in our basements, garages and closets could be utilized TODAY by someone trying to make a better life for their family.

DONATION RESOURCE // Coburn Place

This past week I had the opportunity to tour Coburn Place and was able to see how YOUR donations are placed directly into the hands of those in need. I felt compelled to share the impact that volunteers, the Coburn Place staff and the community are making for adults and children who are impacted by interpersonal abuse. My hope is that you keep Coburn Place top of mind as you look to rehome items that are no longer a fit in your space.

Since 1996, Coburn Place has been this incredibly unique resource for adults and children who are fleeing a dangerous situation. Indianapolis is beyond lucky to have this community resource in our midst, as it is one of the only resources of its kind in a multi-state area. In fact, since opening, Coburn Place has provided more than 1800 adults and children housing and support services.

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