I'm supposed to introduce myself, according to the prompt...so...hello! I'm Trash the Clown. I'm a clown, if you couldn't tell by the name, and my name is Trash...like trash...but capitalized. I'm a community driven Clown in Port Huron, Michigan (pure Michigan) who uses my talents and general clowness to spread joy, whimsy, and love in the community that I adore.

My clown work here in the city started with me simply picking up litter nearly 3 years ago. Over these past 3 years I've picked up litter (obviously) but my work and my vision doesn't end with the garbage. No, I truly believe that we can make our world beautiful, but we have to do it together. All of my clown work revolves around this idea. All I hope to do is spread love and kindness and pride in the community. Plain and simple.

My current big project that I am trying to raise funds for is for something I've been working on for the past year. I noticed that there was a need in my community for an alternative third space that is geared around the community rather than pure profit or alcohol. I believe that providing the community with a space that is outside the box to gather and enjoy art and intimate community events could prove to be a necessary addition to the city. Humans need community and humans want to feel safe and part of something bigger than themselves...I just think they need a special place to do it in. A weird place to call home.

So, naturally, I rented a space a year ago to do such a project in.

The concept is to open The Dumpster, which will serve the community as a pay-what-you-want-if-you-can second hand clothes store during the day, and an event space in the evenings and on the weekends. It will give the community a place to get something they need (clothes) on their own terms so that no one has to have in order to leave with something. It will give the community a physical space to serve. It will give the community a space to gather, share art, make art, hang out. It will give the community a space to be human without fear of judgment. After all...we are all Trash when in the Dumpster

I thought I was near opening months ago, but unfortunately newly added city requirements have brought me to a standstill. I now have to put in a fire rated ceiling, more lighting, a fire wall, and a new stage. I also have to remove a lot of the large art pieces I made for the space (because wood isn't allowed, apparently...whoops)...and replace them with non-combustible things.

The cost to get this work done will be just over 7k...so that's why I'm here today, writing this novel...because I don't have 7k. With all of the work I've already done in the space, plus utilities and rent over the past year, I'm nearly at the end of my rope... but I want to remain positive and not give up hope. I think my community really needs a place like The Dumpster, and with your help we can make it a reality together ❤️