5 Ways to Make an Impact Through Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to refresh your home and rethink how your extra items and time can benefit others. Whether you’re ready to declutter your home or want to create positive change in your community, this season offers simple ways to do both.

From supporting your neighbours to reducing waste, every bag you pack or drawer you sort can be part of a broader movement to give back. Here are five ways to combine spring cleaning and generosity, with practical tips to help you get started.

1. Donate gently used items

Clothes, books, toys, and household items that no longer serve you can make a big difference in someone else’s life. Donate what you no longer need to local shelters, thrift stores, mutual aid groups, or community organizations.

According to the National Association for Charitable Recycling, Canadians generate approximately 1.3 million tonnes of used and waste apparel annually. Only 24% is diverted to reuse or downcycling, while the remaining 76%—nearly one million tonnes—ends up in landfills. Choosing to donate instead of tossing reduces waste, lessens environmental impact, and extends the life of useful goods.

A few ideas to inspire your giving:

• Have gently used baby gear like strollers, cribs, or high chairs? Support new moms through BabyGoRound.
• Retiring a laptop or bike? Helping With Furniture helps newcomer families get settled with essential items.
• Clearing out formalwear? Dresses or suits can empower high school grads and jobseekers through programs like The Cinderella Project or Dress for Success.
  Old gaming console collecting dust? Gamers Outreach delivers entertainment and comfort to kids in hospitals.

Not located near the organizations mentioned? Try searching “[donate gently used items in my location]” or check your municipality’s website for local donation programs.

Pro tip: Check for local “Buy Nothing” groups on Facebook to rehome items directly to neighbours who need them. You’ll declutter while building community.

2. Host a garage sale fundraiser

Turn your spring cleaning into a chance to raise money for a cause you care about. Hosting a garage sale is a simple way to keep items out of the landfill while raising funds for a local charity or community initiative.

A garage sale fundraiser also invites conversations about what matters to you. Display signs or handouts about the cause you’re supporting, and invite neighbours to give.

Pro tip: Want to go beyond your block? Set up a Giving Group to get friends, family, and even more people to contribute, even if they can’t make it to the sale.

3. Rehome unused tools and supplies

Extra gardening gear, art supplies, or kitchen tools might be collecting dust in your cupboards, but they could be exactly what a local school, shelter, or community centre needs.

Many grassroots organizations—like the Vancouver Tool Library—run entirely on donations and volunteers. This cooperative lending library not only shares tools but also fosters skill-building through workshops and community support. Your donated items could become part of a broader system of sharing that helps neighbors help each other.

Pro tip: Don’t just drop off supplies. Consider volunteering your time or skills. Lead a community workshop, help organize donations, or assist with tool upkeep.

4. Clear your calendar for a volunteer day

Decluttering isn’t only about things. Take a look at your calendar and consider making time to give back. Donating even a few hours can have a real impact.

Various studies have shown that volunteering improves well-being and helps build stronger communities. It’s also a great way to connect with causes that align with your values.

Pro tip: Look for seasonal or outdoor opportunities like park cleanups, community garden builds, or donation drives. Many local nonprofits or charities post needs on their websites or community boards.

5. Give more together

Create a community movement by inviting your friends and neighbours to join your spring cleaning. Share your progress on social media, post before-and-afters, and challenge others to do the same. Whether you’re coordinating a group donation drop-off, organizing a volunteer day, or starting a Giving Group to support a cause, your effort can create a ripple effect and wider impact.

Pro tip: Sharing why you’re giving back and who you’re supporting can inspire others to do the same. Your story could motivate someone else to take action.

Make a difference while tidying up your home

Spring is a natural time to reset your space and your habits. By pairing tidying with generosity, you can make room at home while making a difference for others. Giving also has a way of giving back—bringing a sense of connection, purpose, or even just the satisfaction of helping someone else. Whether it’s through a garage sale fundraiser, donating items, or volunteering your time, small actions can have a big impact.

What kind of change do you want to help create this season? Whether it’s supporting local families, protecting the environment, or empowering others, your spring clean can be a meaningful step in that direction.

Ready to turn your spring clean into something greater? Start by exploring Canadian registered charities to give to using an Impact Account or setting up a Giving Group to rally support around the causes you care about. These tools are here to support you, so you can give in a way that fits your life and what you care most about, with support every step of the way.