In tough times, people and organizations often turn to one another for comfort and support. One recent partnership between an area theatre and social service nonprofit proves that we are stronger together.

As business restrictions due to COVID-19 are gradually loosened and Goodwill Manasota reopens its retail stores (while observing relevant safety guidelines), the organization has implemented a comprehensive risk management preparedness and response package spelling out measures to keep team members and the community safe. Included in this document is the proper use of PPE (personal protection equipment), which have been provided to all employees, who are required to wear them while interacting with other team members, shoppers, and donors of lightly-used goods to the organization.

In mid-March, Asolo Repertory Theatre’s season – like those of all other area arts organizations – was cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic. Its 10 now-at-home costume shop workers are sewing face masks that are being distributed to organizations in Sarasota and Manatee counties. From cutting to completion, using extra costume fabrics and scraps from productions, each mask takes 25-30 minutes to make and CDC-approved patterns are being used to build their masks.

In late April, Asolo Rep’s assistant company manager, Cameron Thorp, approached Goodwill to see if they had a need and Goodwill enthusiastically replied in the affirmative. At this time, Asolo Rep is planning to produce 200 masks, to be provided to the partners of Goodwill employees. These are being delivered in weekly batches of 50 through the month of May; the first delivery was made to Goodwill’s Mecca store on May 4 by Thorp.

So far, about 750 masks have been produced and distributed to organizations including: Goodwill Manasota, Senior Friendship Center, Safe Children Coalition, Meals on Wheels of Sarasota, Visible Men Academy, Girls Inc. of Sarasota, and ALSO Youth. Local organizations in need of masks are asked to email Cameron_Thorp@asolo.org.

For more on Goodwill Manasota.