RECAP: TOL | Spring Into Action

The IIDA Toledo City Center recently hosted its third annual Spring into Action event, a program designed to bring members together for networking, creativity, and community service. This year’s event took place at Jūpmode, a Toledo-based screen-printing company and retail brand dedicated to fostering pride in the city by celebrating its rich history while highlighting the excitement and growth happening today.

Attendees began the evening by networking and enjoying food and drinks sponsored by Gasser Bush. The group toured the production facility, where they learned about the screen-printing process, observed an embroidery machine demonstration, and gained insight into the craftsmanship behind Jūpmode’s products. Then we exploded Jūpmode’s retail space, which features locally inspired merchandise and a vintage photo booth that proved to be a popular attraction for guests.

The highlight of the event was the opportunity for participants to print their own custom-designed IIDA Toledo T-shirts featuring iconic Toledo landmarks. The shirt concept was inspired by graphic designer Kendel Shanks, husband of IIDA member Emma Shank, and served as a unique way to celebrate the city and the organization.

In keeping with the event’s mission of giving back, attendees were encouraged to bring gently used professional clothing for donation to local career closets. Support extended beyond the event itself, as members attending the Ohio/Kentucky Chapter’s May Friday Forum: Toledo Edition also contributed donations. The generosity shown by both groups was inspiring.

Together, participants collected just under 200 pounds of professional attire for individuals seeking employment opportunities and career advancement. Donations were distributed to the Owens Community College Career Closet and Timothy’s Perrysburg Foundation Clothesline program, which provides clothing to Cocoon survivors and other community members in need.

Cocoon is Wood County’s comprehensive domestic and sexual violence agency, offering shelter, advocacy, and support services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sex trafficking, stalking, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

The success of this year’s Spring into Action event demonstrated the power of community engagement, creativity, and service. By coming together to learn, create, and give back, IIDA Toledo City Center members made a meaningful impact while celebrating the spirit of Toledo.

The event benefactors were MDC Interior Solutions Rebecca Smith, Hanson Distribution Agency/ KI + Takeform Amy Seifert, and Thentic Furniture Group Robin Brawner.

@jupmode

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