They are also passionate about sustainability and reducing waste.
Table of Contents
The Art of Recycle in Pennsylvania
A Thriving Community of Sustainability
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania, The Art of Recycle is a treasure trove of unique and eclectic items that not only add a touch of personality to any home but also serve as a testament to the community’s commitment to sustainability.
“We are not just a theater company, we Art of Recycle is a community arts center.”
The Art of Recycle: A Community Arts Center
The Art of Recycle is a unique organization that combines art, theater, and community engagement to create a vibrant and inclusive space for people of all ages and abilities. With a focus on promoting social change and healing, the organization offers a wide range of programs and services that cater to diverse needs and interests.
Programs and Services
The Art of Recycle offers a variety of programs and services that cater to different age groups and abilities. Some of the programs include:
These programs and services are designed to promote social change, healing, and community engagement. By providing a platform for people to express themselves and connect with others, the Art of Recycle aims to create a more inclusive and compassionate society.
The Impact of the Art of Recycle
The Art of Recycle has made a significant impact on the community, particularly among special needs youth. The life and job skills training program has helped many young people develop essential life skills, build confidence, and achieve their goals. The theater productions featuring handmade finger puppets have also provided a unique and engaging way for people to tell stories and connect with others. The Art of Recycle’s community arts workshops and classes have also been instrumental in promoting social change and healing. By providing a platform for people to express themselves and connect with others, the organization has helped to create a more inclusive and compassionate society.
The Vision of the Founder
The founder of the Art of Recycle, Myers, has a clear vision for the organization.
They started dating in 2017 and got married in 2017.
A Love Born from Art and Music
The couple’s love story began at an art event in York County, where they both happened to be attending. It was a chance encounter that would change their lives forever. The event was a celebration of local art, and the couple was drawn to the vibrant atmosphere and creative energy. As they mingled and chatted, they discovered a shared passion for art and music. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and they found themselves lost in discussion about their favorite artists and genres. It was as if they had known each other for years, not just minutes. Their connection was palpable, and they both felt an instant attraction. “It was, like, love at first sight,” Montanye said, recalling the moment they met. The couple’s chemistry was undeniable, and they both knew they had found someone special.
Building a Life Together
After their chance encounter, the couple began working together at festivals and other public events.
The new location is more accessible and has more space for the art and the community.
The Art of Recycle: A Hub for Creativity and Sustainability
A Brief History
The Art of Recycle, a nonprofit organization, has been a staple in the community since its inception in 2012. The organization’s mission is to promote creativity, sustainability, and community engagement through art and recycling. In this article, we will delve into the history of The Art of Recycle, its current location, and the impact it has on the community.
A New Home
In 2016, The Art of Recycle relocated to its current location, just a block away from the historic Ephrata Cloister. The new location offers more space for the art and the community, making it a more accessible and inviting destination. The organization’s leadership recognized the need for a more spacious facility to accommodate the growing demand for its services.
Community Engagement
The Art of Recycle is more than just a recycling center; it’s a hub for creativity and community engagement. The organization offers a variety of programs and services, including:
Educators are also involved in the store’s programs. Some teachers have even started their own community-based programs using the store’s resources. This highlights the mutually beneficial relationship between the educators and the store. The store provides the educators with access to valuable resources while the educators bring expertise and a deep understanding of the community’s needs to the store’s operations. This partnership has led to the creation of innovative solutions, such as a program that collects used school uniforms and recycles them into new ones. This partnership has also led to the creation of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly store. The store now uses a significant portion of the items that would have otherwise been discarded, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of the store’s operations. This shift has also allowed the store to reduce its costs, as it no longer needs to purchase new items to replace those that are no longer needed.
They are not concerned with the age or experience of the workers, but rather with their ability to contribute to the community.
The Unconventional Approach to Hiring**
Montanye and Myers’ approach to hiring is unorthodox, to say the least. They don’t follow traditional hiring protocols, which often prioritize experience and age over other factors. Instead, they focus on finding individuals who share their vision for the community and can contribute to its growth.
Key Principles of Their Hiring Process**
The Benefits of Their Approach**
By prioritizing community-oriented individuals, Montanye and Myers have created a unique and dynamic work environment. The benefits of their approach include:
Others are students who have been diagnosed with special needs, such as autism, ADHD, or Down syndrome, and require a tailored approach to learning.
The Art of Learning
The store, which remains unnamed, has been a staple in the community for over a decade. It offers a unique approach to education, focusing on hands-on art projects and collaborative learning.
The Unconventional Art Class
The art class on Thursday mornings is a unique and eclectic gathering of individuals from diverse backgrounds. The class is open to anyone who wants to explore their creativity, regardless of age, skill level, or experience. The instructor, a passionate and experienced artist, leads the group through a variety of exercises and projects that cater to different interests and abilities.
The Thrift Store Connection
The art class is funded by proceeds from the thrift store, which is also a community hub. The thrift store’s mission is to provide affordable and sustainable fashion options to the community, while also supporting local artists and artisans. The art class is an integral part of this mission, as it provides a platform for people to express themselves creatively and connect with others. Key aspects of the thrift store connection: + Affordable and sustainable fashion options + Supporting local artists and artisans + Community hub
The Nonprofit’s Stance on Corporate Sponsors
The nonprofit organization that runs the art class has a clear stance on corporate sponsors. For the most part, they refuse would-be corporate sponsors, opting instead to rely on the thrift store’s proceeds and community support. This approach allows the organization to maintain its independence and focus on its core mission.
Their approach is rooted in the idea that art and community are intertwined, and that the art created by the couple is a reflection of their connection to the community.
The Art of Recycle’s Mission
The Art of Recycle is a non-profit organization that aims to promote art and community through creative reuse and recycling of materials.
The Struggle is Real: Montanye’s Journey with Ovarian Ruptures
Montanye’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. For 16 long years, she endured the excruciating pain and internal bleeding caused by ovarian ruptures. These debilitating episodes left her feeling weak, exhausted, and questioning her ability to cope with the challenges of life.
The Impact of Ovarian Ruptures on Daily Life
Ovarian ruptures can have a profound impact on a person’s daily life. The pain can be excruciating, making it difficult to perform even the simplest tasks. Simple activities like cooking, cleaning, or taking a shower become daunting challenges. The emotional toll of these episodes cannot be overstated, leaving individuals feeling anxious, depressed, and isolated. The emotional burden of ovarian ruptures can be overwhelming, making it challenging for individuals to maintain relationships or pursue their passions. The physical limitations imposed by ovarian ruptures can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness. The financial burden of medical expenses and lost productivity can be significant, further exacerbating the emotional and physical toll.
Finding Hope and Healing
Despite the challenges, Montanye found hope and healing through her work with Art of Recycle. This organization provides support and resources to individuals affected by ovarian cancer and other gynecological conditions.
“I think people who have the most fulfilling lives have a purpose,” she said. “That’s what keeps us going.”