Clothes Help Fund Vocational Schools
by Suzanne Chessler/Special to The Detroit News

BERKLEY -- Janet Berman raises funds for education by helping run a business -- the ClothespORT resale shop in Berkley.

The store sells apparel donated and collected by members of Women's American Organization for Educational Resources and Technological Training to support specialized vocational schools around the globe.

"I was an elementary school teacher, so the idea of giving an education is important to me," says Berman, whose 23-year affiliation with the organization includes serving as president of the Michigan region. She joined after watching a public television program about the organization.

Although the store is staffed by paid employees, Berman, as chairwoman, is among those who lend assistance as volunteers. She says she has met many interesting customers at the store, including a man who collects vintage clothing and people who donate clothes as well as buy them.

Berman's personal interest in Women's American Organization was strengthened by knowing how an ORT school benefited her father-in-law. Displaced in Europe after World War II, he attended classes, learned the furrier trade and became self-sufficient.

"I've learned a lot about marketing and retail enterprise while volunteering at the ClothespORT," says Berman, a Farmington Hills resident who is coming up with ideas for expanding the business.

She is planning a spring fashion show to let groups of people know the types and quality of clothing available at the ClothespORT.

How to help:

What: Michigan Region of Women's American Organization for Educational Resources and Technological Training

Purpose: Finance vocational schools around the globe.

Contact: Chapter Office, 6735 Telegraph, Bloomfield Hills; (248) 723-8860. ClothespORT, 3026 W. 12 Mile, Berkley, MI; (248) 398-5019.

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