Written by Carson Schroeder
June 13, 2025
Photography by Carson Schroeder
The Delegates’ Closet is an opportunity for delegates at American Legion Buckeye Boys State (ALBBS) to obtain free formal articles of clothing they may have forgotten or do not have readily available.
This service was taken over by Melissa Fowle, a Legionnaire and Past President of ALBBS, from the counselors years ago and is assisted by Director Jim Koppin.
“There were times that we dressed up and the delegates didn’t have anything…So [Legionnaires and counselors] brought in tons of donations so that the delegates could choose something,” said Fowle.
The Delegates’ Closet has only kept growing as Fowle confirmed on how they keep on receiving more and more donations each year.
The impact of the Delegates’ Closet ensures that all delegates can fully participate in all aspects of the program; no matter their height, size, style, or personal circumstances.
“That way, it doesn’t label those who can’t afford it, because everybody can go in there,” said Fowle.
“The shoes that I had, they’re all gone. Suspenders, belts, those are all gone. It’s being used and I’m just so excited that young men have the opportunity to have something of their own, because everything that they choose is kept,” said Fowle.
“The shoes that I had, they’re all gone. Suspenders, belts, those are all gone. It’s being used and I’m just so excited that young men have the opportunity to have something of their own, because everything that they choose is kept,” said Fowle.
If there are any clothes actually leftover, Fowle stores them at her home or in the closet until next year. She then works with a non-profit organization in Dayton, Ohio called Clothes That Work where she donates clothes and receives donations as well.
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