When we first introduced you to the ELAC Pop-Up Closet, we told the story of how a simple yet powerful initiative was born out of a desire to support students in need. Thanks to the passion and leadership of its founder, Renato, the project took shape and quickly became a vital resource on campus. But the story doesn’t end there.
Chris Olivares, a former ELAC student and Sociology Club president, has been instrumental in carrying the torch forward. Now working on his master’s degree, Chris continues to dedicate his time and energy to ensuring the Pop-Up Closet remains a thriving support system for students. His journey is one of perseverance, community-building, and an unwavering belief in giving back.
A Student Initiative That Became a Lifeline
Chris first got involved with the Pop-Up Closet after taking a sociology class that examined the wastefulness of the fashion industry. Inspired to find a way to repurpose clothing and make an impact, he worked with Renato to transform an academic idea into a student-led project. By 2022, with funding from the Associated Student Union (ASU) and support from the Sociology Club, the closet officially launched.
Under Chris’s leadership, the initiative expanded far beyond its initial vision. What started as a career closet offering professional attire for job interviews quickly grew into a comprehensive resource providing everyday clothing, hygiene kits, and even household essentials. In its first year, the Pop-Up Closet served over 1,500 students. Today, that number has exceeded 4,000.
Facing New Challenges
Despite its success, the Pop-Up Closet is now facing growing pains. Storage has become the most pressing issue, with donations piling up in makeshift spaces around the campus. Chris and his small team of volunteers operate out of a limited storage area, making it increasingly difficult to keep up with the demand.
Additionally, the need for funding continues. Shirts for volunteers, hygiene kits, and equipment like garment racks and a portable washing machine are all necessary to keep the program running smoothly. Chris has also been exploring innovative ideas like creating a digital wardrobe system that would allow students to reserve career attire online before picking it up—a move that would streamline the process and help keep items in circulation.
LumenSparQ Steps In
At LumenSparQ, we believe in supporting grassroots efforts that directly impact students and communities. After hearing Chris’s story and seeing the immense value of the Pop-Up Closet, we knew we had to help. We will be providing:
- New volunteer t-shirts to help the team maintain visibility and unity.
- Additional garment racks to improve organization and efficiency.
- Support for purchasing a portable washing machine to ensure all donated clothes are fresh and ready for use.
- Hygiene kits, with a focus on essential items like deodorant, shaving cream, and feminine hygiene products.
While we are stepping in to assist with these immediate needs, the Pop-Up Closet still requires long-term support from the community.
How You Can Help
Chris’s vision for the Pop-Up Closet doesn’t stop at ELAC—he dreams of expanding the model into a mobile nonprofit called Sustainable Los Angeles, bringing clothing and essential items to students across multiple campuses. While that vision is still in development, there are ways you can help right now:
- Spread the word. Awareness is key to keeping this initiative alive and growing.
- Donate. Clothing, hygiene products, and financial contributions can all make a difference.
- Volunteer. If you are in the area and want to support sorting and distributing items, reach out.
Chris’s commitment to ELAC and its students is a testament to the power of service and perseverance. His leadership ensures that what started as a simple idea has now become a sustainable movement, proving that real change happens when communities come together.
“I go home with big headaches every day,” Chris shared with a laugh, “but it’s all worth it when I see students walk away with what they need.”We are proud to support Chris and his work at ELAC, and we look forward to seeing how this initiative continues to evolve. If you’d like to contribute or learn more, stay connected with us at LumenSparQ.