b'Kids want just to be heard, to know that someone cares, and that happens automatically here, Klepper said. Often, theres a symbolic connection with the donated pieces that get flipped at Reclaim It. The ability of the donors to share the history of their item can be therapeutic, especially if the item has its own history or is attached to a particular memory. They want to know that their piece is going to a good place.If we can put the whole line together from the donor to the story to the item, which will need cleaned or tweaked or remade, the kids get to see themselves in the process, she said. And all of a sudden, something no one wanted has become something of value.As Reclaim It has taken shape, a board of about a dozen community Reclaim It is the home to an eclectic mix of donated vintage furnitureeducators and leaders is forging the way. But the greatest tool is the and accessories, a broad selection of artwork from local and regionalyouth advisory board, according to Klepper. Currently, about 10-14 kids artisans, and in-house upcycled housewares and merchandise offeredare Reclaim It regulars, and that number is growing. The picture is still for sale to the community. Four students from Sentinel Career Centeremerging about how Reclaim It will involve them. But for now, they get in Tiffin, and their instructor, Aaron Thompson, helped transform theto try new things without the fear of failure. And they get to shine.Reclaim It building. But to fulfill its mission, the key for Reclaim It is to get kids involved. The ideas are limited only by the creativity of the team of volunteers and four staff members. Klepper has found herself using some of the Reclaim It provides a safe environment where they can begin to findskills acquired from her accounting and psychology majors as she their voice and empower themselves. Through helping to refinishnavigates the possibilities.the items with the assistance of volunteer mentors, they find their creativity. Through story-telling and group meals, they get connectedThe system is broken, and we hold all the power, she said. Slowly but to the community and begin to feel supported. The soft and hard skillssurely, as this proves to be something people will be willing to have a they learn through these hands-on activities are a bonus. discussion about, we have people in spaces willing to create change.Kids want just to be heard, to know that someone cares, and that happens automatically here. Karen Klepper, 93Summer 2019|13'