Western Avenue Elementary School clothing sale marks 45 years, seeks new generation of sellers
For 45 years, the Western Avenue Elementary School PTO Clothing Sale has brought Geneva families together to buy and sell gently used children's clothing, toys, books, games, sporting equipment and other family essentials.
The beloved community tradition returns Nov. 6-7, continuing a legacy of affordable shopping, volunteerism and support for Western Avenue Elementary School. Sale hours are 6-9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the school, 1500 Western Ave., Geneva.
First held in 1981, the sale began as a modest fundraiser generating approximately $500 to $600. Today, it has grown into one of Geneva's longest-running community shopping traditions, bringing together more than 100 sellers and generations of local families.
While the sale has enjoyed decades of success, organizers are emphasizing the importance of attracting new sellers to ensure the tradition continues for another generation. Families can turn outgrown clothing and unused items into extra income while supporting their neighborhood school.
Sellers receive 60% of their sales proceeds, with the remaining 40% benefiting the Western Avenue Elementary School PTO and its programs.
“This sale is about so much more than clearing out closets,” said Taryn Sullivan, chair of the Western Avenue Elementary School Clothing Sale. “Families find great bargains, our students benefit, and many unsold items go on to help local charities. That spirit of neighbors helping neighbors is what makes this Western Avenue tradition so special.”
The event has become a multigenerational tradition for many Geneva families.
“I used to shop at the sale when my children were little. Now I'm shopping for my grandchildren,” Kathleen Gibson said. “It's wonderful to see that the sale is still bringing families together after all these years.”
Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns, himself a Western Avenue Elementary School alumnus, praised the sale's enduring contribution to the community.
“Celebrating 45 years, the Western Avenue School Consignment Sale is far and away the most storied and successful shopping extravaganza in Geneva,” said Burns. “This annual event is more than just a sale; it's a unique opportunity to shop for clothing, books, games and sporting equipment while supporting the circular economy and the programs and services offered by the Western Avenue School PTO.”
Behind the scenes, the sale represents a remarkable volunteer effort. Approximately 134 volunteer shifts account for nearly 600 hours of service, in addition to the extensive work of 17 committee members who spend much of three days preparing merchandise, organizing the sale and coordinating operations.
Shoppers will find a wide variety of gently used merchandise at affordable prices. On Saturday, many remaining items will be offered at 50% off, providing an additional opportunity for families to find exceptional bargains.
Following the sale, unsold merchandise designated for donation is distributed to local charitable organizations, extending the event's benefits beyond the school community.
To commemorate the sale's 45th anniversary, a special ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held during the week of the event. All members of the community are invited to join the celebration and help recognize this longstanding Geneva tradition. Additional details about the ceremony will be announced.
Organizers encourage both longtime participants and first-time sellers to take part in this year's anniversary sale and help sustain a Geneva tradition that has served local families for 45 years.
Look for the Western Avenue Elementary School Clothing Sale on the Geneva marquee during the week of the event.
The Western Avenue Elementary School PTO supports students, teachers and families through educational enrichment, school programs and community-building activities. The semiannual clothing sale is one of its signature fundraising traditions.