Starting a Clothes Exchange Affiliate is a serious commitment for an organization, one that comes with benefits and obligations. First and foremost, your organization will need to commit the resources required to carryout great events. While the financial commitment is generally low, pulling off a great event requires a significant commitment of time and human resources. Affiliates are expected to designate a project leader and to form a steering committee specifically to support their Clothes Exchange events.

Affiliates must also follow The Clothes Exchange's Operations Guide and abide by the terms of the Affiliate Agreement.

One of the greatest benefits TCE offer nonprofits is a time tested model and a network of support from both TCE staff and our small but growing Affiliate Network. Everything you'll need to carryout your Clothes Exchange event can be found in our online Operations Guide and Event Planning Tool Kit. 

The Operations Guide includes information about: 

• Managing volunteers
• Facilitating planning meetings 
• Steering Committee roles and responsibilities
• Planning time lines
• Marketing your event
  
• Building relationships with retail partners
• Selecting venues
• Managing financial transactions
• Organizing clothes drives
• Setting up your event space
• Sorting and pricing clothes
  
• and so much more

The Toolkit includes:

• Templates for print ads, posters and fliers to promote your event and Bring Back programs
• Sample press releases and media kit materials
• Sample copy for radio advertisements
• Sample fundraising letters and other correspondence
• Affiliate specific business cards, letter head, note cards and logos
• The Clothes Exchange Design Guide
• and so much more

In addition, Affiliates receive:

• Discount pricing on CE merchandise including t-shirts and tote bags
• Their own webpage on www.theclothesexchange.org
• Access to Affiliate Only On-Line Resources including The Operations Guide and marketing support materials 
• Free Start-Up consultation and on-going support
• Access to The Clothes Exchange Network on-line forum where Affiliates share best practices.
• PR support