If you haven’t figured it out by now, I love to shop. It’s a problem, really. I don’t even care whether I am shopping for myself or others or whether I am buying clothes, shoes, or deodorant. I just like the exchange of money for merchandise.

It is a common misconception that hobbies and interests like shopping can’t be used to help others. I’m not talking about buying your sister a new shirt; I’m talking about really making a difference in the world. I guarantee that wherever your talents and interests may lie, they can be used to help someone else.

Lindsay Giambattista used her talent and passion for shopping to start Taylor’s Closet in 2005. Taylor’s Closet, named after Giambattista’s sister who died, is an opportunity for girls in foster care to “shop” and pick out clothes to wear, free of charge.

The program began as a way to provide support for girls in foster care and to let them know that they are not alone in their struggles. The first “shop” took place on a large yacht in Pompano Beach, Florida with 30 girls in attendance.

Today, there is a permanent shop located in North Lauderdale, Florida.

All of the clothes in Taylor’s Closet are quality brand names, and many have been donated directly from designers and even leftover samples from Teen Vogue. You can donate your new or gently worn clothing too! Shoppers are allowed to take 6 pieces per visit.

Taylor’s Closet has been featured on national TV and receives donations from all over the world. They have sponsored several outreaches including a fashion show, and are scheduled to host more in the near future.

Lindsay Giambattista is still in high school, but she is affecting the lives of hundreds of girls in the foster care system. She loves shopping, and now those less fortunate than her can enjoy her hobby too. Where do your interests lie? How can you use them to make a difference in the world?

For more information on Lindsay Giambattista or Taylor’s Closet, visit www.taylorscloset.com.