Shopping or eating can mean more than finding a new pair of shoes or your new go-to sweet; it can be a way to make a difference in our community. Here are five places in Birmingham you can make an impact through shopping!
Studio By The Tracks | Irondale
Studio By The Tracks is a magical place where artists on the autism spectrum can freely create in any medium. The Studio provides an all-inclusive atmosphere where artists have access to materials and guidance, supporting every individual’s vision and love for creativity.
Attached to Studio By The Tracks is a Studio Shop where you can browse and purchase intentional and beautiful designs from the artists, all while supporting them financially. Not only are you selecting your favorite new piece for your home or a gift for a loved one, but you are also supporting the artists’ income through 60% of your purchase and keeping this special place alive with what remains.
Full Circle BHM | Homewood
Full Circle is a boutique nestled in downtown Homewood, and is more than just your average shopping experience. Racks of curated clothing, shoes, purses, and jewelry are carefully selected, offering secondhand fashion that won’t break the bank. Full Circle isn’t just a fashionable boutique; it carries a deeper meaning beyond cute heels and elegant blouses.
The boutique gives adults with disabilities hands-on opportunities to develop work-life skills, gain future opportunities, enjoy independence, build confidence, and create community. From customer service and communication to managing inventory, shopping becomes an impactful way for these adults to own their independence and grow over time.
Empower Café | Avondale
There is a reason Empower Café has its name! Beyond the savory meals, the delightful sweet treats, and a warm atmosphere, you become connected with something much bigger than French fries or a slice of pound cake.
Empower Café provides young adults with disabilities and barriers with chances to strengthen life skills and confidence through hands-on training in food service. You aren’t just enjoying yummy foods, you’re empowering young adults to strive for a brighter future, igniting their confidence, and offering a sense of community.
My Sister’s Closet of YWCA Central Alabama | Downtown
More than clothing, more than shopping, and more than anything, My Sister’s Closet helps women claim the power within. This boutique-style space provides a safe space for women overcoming domestic violence, unemployment, or financial hardships to browse clothing for interviews, court and work spaces.
A shopping destination for women of all backgrounds, My Sister’s Closet has the best deals, creating a high-end shopping experience for a fraction of the price. From racks featuring designer items to store merchandise and wardrobe must-haves, you can find any unique treasure.
Unless U Scoops | Vestavia Hills
Who doesn’t love ice cream? More than a sweet treat and handcrafted ice cream, Unless U Scoops serves a tasty range of flavors built on inclusion and purpose. From rich chocolate to refreshing lemon sorbets, this will be your new go-to spot.
Unless U Scoops offers meaningful employment opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it builds a portfolio of job skills and strengthens confidence and self-sufficiency. Students are given the opportunity to enrich their experience academically, socially, and in their career.
Cover Image by Alyssa Strohmann
