Earth-First Efforts
Be a part of the solution! Support GARNA’s Sustainability Coordinator by getting involved in our local green initiatives. We have several flexible ways for you to make an impact.
Waste Diversion: Help close the loop by identifying ‘hard to recycle’ events GARNA can host and volunteer at the event itself with us! Plus, evaluate and deploy expanded resource recovery programs for the local community.
Education: Be part of a mobilized, passionate group that helps distribute educational material on a regular basis all within Chaffee County and identify community/youth organizations for educational outreach. Also, help us do outreach by talking to people at events like the Farmer’s Market.
- Sustainable Salida Businesses: Approach local businesses to join the SSB program, educate owners on what it takes to be a recognized sustainable business and provide continuous support and educational resources. We would love to grow this program beyond Salida to the other towns within Chaffee County!
Ready to make a real impact and help shape a sustainable future for our county? Then, join our volunteer group! Contact Josie, our Sustainability Coordinator, at josie@garna.org to get started.
Welcome to the Repurpose, Reuse & Upcycle Hub.
Don’t toss it—pass it on! This list is all about keeping cool stuff out of the landfill and getting it into the hands of neighbors who can give it a second life.
Want to be a Collector?
If you’re a local “treasure hunter” looking for specific items, email josie@garna.org to join our list.
Ready to donate?
Snap a photo of your item and send it to josie@garna.org. Our Sustainability Coordinator will handle the rest and connect you with a new home for your unwanted goods!
The Collector:
- Bike wheels (unbent spokes only) and gear sprockets: Katie uses these pieces to create beautiful, upcycled mosaic wall art.
- Feed Bags: Wendy & a group of local ladies can create upcycled tote bags and even an ATV cover for you!
- Repair is Radical: Luka reimagines your unwanted material into upcycled, refashioned pieces.
- Embellishments:
- Buttons: Various sizes and colors for fastening or decoration.
- Beads: Small accents to add texture or shine.
- Fabric & Textiles: please pre-wash
- Blue Fabric: Any miscellaneous fabrics in shades of blue.
- Denim: Whole jeans or large scraps (will be cut down).
- Felt: A variety of colors (note: felt usually doesn’t require prewashing)
- Interesting Patterns: Any patterned fabrics you’ve collected.
- Thread & Details:
- Embroidery Floss: For hand-stitching and decorative details.
- Machine Thread: Standard thread for assembly.
- Embellishments:
“There is no such thing as ‘away’. When we throw anything away it must go somewhere.” — Annie Leonard
