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If you wander down 1331 North Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, you'll come across the Boring Store. From the outside, the sign reads Not a Secret Agent Supply Store. Walk inside and you'll see a retail space devoted to super fun spy supplies. But there's more going on at the Boring Store.

The Boring Store is actually a front. In the "back room" of the boring store there's a giant classroom and educational area. The Boring Store is a part of the 826 organization, and they offer a variety of creative writing, tutoring and creative educational programs for kids age 6 to 18. For FREE.

826Chi students get to publish their own books, get writing, photography and other creative education from professionals who are world renowned in their crafts.

We are inspired by this organization because they've taken an incredibly unique approach to marketing, fundraising and connecting with their community. Each of their locations features an equally creative storefront. The retail sales support the programs that take place in the classrooms, while offering a window to what's actually going on.

It's true. We shopped the Boring Store (and bought some FUN toys and gifts) while peeking in on a classroom of kids going through a super fun writing exercise. How many non-profits have you given to where you saw the results in front of your eyes??

Other non-profits can learn from the 826 organization and know that it's ok to be unique. Just because you're a non-profit doesn't mean that you have to be "boring." Sometimes it's ok to visit the back side of boring.

If you're not in Chicago, that's ok - you can visit one of the many other 826 locations across the nation. And if you're in Chi-town, know that there's something going on at that North Milwaukee store. Something more than boring.

(See more of the boring store and an interview with their top secret agent on the PlaidNation Chicago wrapup video.)

Labels: boring store, chicago, nonprofit

posted by darryl ohrt at 8:23 AM 0 Comments