Hi everyone! KIAKS is a small, queer woman owned business in Rochester, NY.
Something you may not know is that a lot of small business owners also work other jobs to support their dream/vision/brick and mortar. While I left my full time job to open KIAKS, I have consistently worked a part time job(s) alongside of running the shop hence inconsistent hours at times or being unable to open due to chronic migraines when my body can no longer keep pushing.
These things mentioned, along with the cold, harsh Rochester winter we catapulted into right after being persuaded to open in October, have made the beginning stages of KIAKS a constant uphill battle. However, I have been overjoyed at each new person that ventures into our shop, whether they’ve heard of us from a friend, radio or in local print. It has warmed my heart meeting so many other likeminded individuals who want to prioritize shopping secondhand and directly supporting & recycling vintage within our community. I feel so lucky to be a part of the community in this way and share my talents while encouraging others to shop sustainably, something that is so important to me.
I built this business from the ground up with no capital funding, no business loans, no gofundme startup or crowdfunding & that felt like an incredible achievement. It is extremely hard to admit that KIAKS could use a little help at this time. I know things are tough for the majority of us right now, so please don’t feel any pressure to give if you cannot. I’m just hoping those who have a little extra than most of us may be able to assist in some way. If you want to support a business that promotes shopping sustainably FIRST, bringing community together in harmony through crafting and music, fashion workshops and supporting our neighbors in need of clothing/accessories that help them embrace who they are, please consider donating to help keep our mission alive and thriving.
Here are some key goals we wish to achieve with your help:
- Hire a part-time employee to ensure we can stay open consistently and serve our community better.
- Stock our Mutual Aid Closet, which is mainly done by my personal funding at this time, but provides free clothing to those in need—no questions asked.
- Cover regular bills and maintenance to keep our space safe, welcoming, and functional. We will be in need of 2 window air conditioners for this summer as the sun pours through our space most of the day(which we LOVE!) but makes our space toasty.
- Invest in marketing materials to spread the word and reach more folks who would love what we offer or need resources to clothing/community.
Every dollar makes a difference and helps us continue doing what we love: providing beautiful, sustainable goods and being a resource and refuge for our community. Thank you for supporting our business—we truly couldn’t do this without you!
With so much love,
Jenson (she/her)
Owner of KIAKS
