Volunteer Opportunity for Northern Virginia Textile Recycling/Re-Use Project

V O L U N T E E R   O P P O R T U N I T Y 

ReFiber: Volunteers Needed for New Textile Recycling/ReUse Project in Northern Virginia

ReFiber is a new textile recycling/reuse pilot in Northern Virginia launching in early 2026. We are currently accepting fabric and textile donations and seeking volunteers to help prepare materials for philanthropy-based sale. Volunteers will receive first choice and early access to purchasing featured textiles.

Upcoming Volunteer Sessions

· 1) Thursday, December 11 — 2:00–5:00 p.m.

· 2) Saturday, December 20 — 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

· 3) Saturday, January 10 — 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

· 4) Saturday, January 10 — 2:00–5:00 p.m. 

Looking ahead: Monthly sessions are expected in 2026.

Location

All volunteering will be through LSSNCA Resource Center in Alexandria, VA.  More details provided post sign-up.

What You’ll Do

Each session begins with a brief introduction to the ReFiber project and a tour of the LSSNCA Resource Center. Volunteers will help prepare recycled textiles, which may include:

· Cutting down donated fabrics to sale size

· Recovering buttons, zippers, elastic, or other notions

· Deconstructing sweaters for wool reclamation

· Sorting clothing to identify appropriate items for ReFiber processing

The environment is relaxed, hands-on, and collaborative.

How to Sign Up or Ask Questions

Email program volunteer lead Elizabeth at ReFiberPilot@gmail.com with your preferred session date and any questions. Advance sign-up is encouraged as space is limited.

Do I Need Experience?

No experience is required—just comfort using scissors and an interest in recycling.

I want to help, but can't come then - are there other opportunities?

Yes! One-time and occasional volunteers are welcome.
If you can’t attend in person, you may have the option to take home an “unwind a sweater” kit to help reclaim yarn. Please email ReFiberPilot@gmail.com to be on waiting list. 

Can Children Attend?

Children over 8 who can safely use adult scissors are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What Should I Bring?

Fabric scissors are helpful but not required. You may also bring fabric, clothing, or yarn donations if you wish. (Tax-deductible receipt can be provided).  You may bring a drink and light snacks as well. 

How Are Funds Used?

The ReFiber pilot program is being developed in partnership with the Lutheran Social Services National Capital Region (LSSNCA) Resource Center, a 501(c)(3) organization. Profits from any materials sold from this waste diversion pathway will go directly to supporting LSSNCA mission and services.