Join us for this semiannual event that provides opportunities to repair clothing and household items, safely dispose of tricky-to-recycle materials, and donate bicycles, old sneakers, and more—all while bringing attention to strategies that redefine waste and improve environmental conditions!
We’ll be joined by an amazing group of waste-reduction and repurposing enthusiasts focusing on economically, environmentally, and socially responsible approaches to purchasing and consumption.
♻️ REDUCE + REPURPOSE
These organizations will be on-site helping us reduce and repurpose our waste:
Reduce Waste Chicago → Accepting worn-out sneakers, disposable face masks, and old toothbrushes. They will also be collecting additional items—stay tuned!
PCs for People → Collecting computers and old technology (only as listed here) for refurbishing and donation.
EcoShip → Collecting packing materials (only as listed here).
Cradles to Crayons → Accepting seasonal clothing in all shapes and sizes.
Creative Chicago Reuse Exchange (CCRx) → Collecting office items, art and school supplies, and similar materials (see their most wanted list).
PAWS Chicago → Accepting towels and sheets to keep canines and felines warm, plus pet supplies and food (see their wish list).
Rebuilding Exchange → Accepting small tools and hardware items.
Working Bikes → Accepting bicycles and old bike tire tubes.
🔧 REPAIR
These organizations will be on-site helping repair items:
Community Glue Workshop → Working on just about any busted, torn, or short-circuited item you can fit through the front door.
Blue City Cycles → Hosting a pop-up repair station—stay tuned for details!
💡 DISCOVER + DISCUSS
Organizations helping Reuse-a-Palooza goers discover new approaches and discuss sustainable practices:
Trash Castle + Snail Catalog → Sharing insight into plastic recycling and eco-friendly printing practices.
The WasteShed → Hosting a seasonal crafting activity using repurposed materials.
Madd Science Print Lab → On-site screen printing thrifted clothing.
350 Chicago → Discussing new strategies to reduce your environmental footprint and advocate for greater change.
Chicago Environmental Organizers → Drumming up support as they prepare for a City Council hearing on plastics and health in April.
Degrowth Institute → Challenging the idea of endless growth and hosting their book club after the event—stay tuned!
🍽️ FOOD + DRINK
Come hungry! MeetStop by Ste. Martaen will be serving their signature vegan comfort food inside Whiner Beer Co.’s taproom. Whiner will also have green beer, naturally colored with Back of the Yards Algae Sciences’ phycocyanin—a safe, non-toxic food colorant derived from blue-green algae.
🌱 TOUR OF THE PLANT
A tour of The Plant will be offered at 2pm sharp. Advance tickets are strongly encouraged and can be purchased here. Tours are free for 60609 residents—since this online shop doesn’t offer that option, please email us to reserve your spot!
📣 GET INVOLVED
Want to be part of the action? Sign up for a volunteer shift here!
The poster art for our spring 2025 edition was originally designed by Elena De Santi for ArtistsForClimate.org.