It all started with a simple drive down University Avenue in Ames, when Iowa State graduate student Elizabeth Ortiz spotted something that sparked an idea: a pile of furniture destined for the dumpster at the Radisson Hotel. Though she'd never personally met anyone from the Iowa Waste Exchange, Elizabeth, familiar with waste diversion efforts from events like Sustainapalooza and Rummage Rampage, knew there had to be a better solution.

She stopped her car, walked into the hotel, and spoke directly with the receptionist who connected her with the project manager, Adam Daeges. Elizabeth proactively informed him about programs like the Iowa Waste Exchange that could help divert those materials from the landfill. Daeges, was extremely interested in diverting the materials from the landfill and had actively been researching alternatives, reached out to the Iowa Waste Exchange.

On the very first day onsite, all of the table and floor lamps and chairs available were matched and earmarked for The Freestore in Des Moines. The Freestore, a volunteer-run furniture bank, provides free furniture and household items to families in central Iowa who are rebuilding their lives after experiencing trauma like domestic violence, natural disasters, or criminal assault. They will likely continue to receive lamps and chairs throughout the renovation, space permitting.

The collaboration continues. Mattresses from the hotel's renovation are also being diverted. The first batch went to the Association of Youth Development and Enrichment (AYDE) in Des Moines next week. AYDE is a non-profit dedicated to providing humanitarian and relief assistance, with a strong focus on youth development, ensuring these items will benefit those in need.