Everett Public Schools students run a free clothing closet at the Carl Gipson Center, open Wednesdays and Fridays to anyone who needs clothes.

Students in the Gaining Ownership of Adult Life (GOAL) program, a transition program for 18- to 21-year-old students with disabilities, operate the closet from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the center, located at 3025 Lombard Ave. Volunteers estimate about 25 people visit each week to pick up clothing for children and adults, according to the district.

The students handle the full cycle. They sort and organize donated clothing, then help visitors find what they need.

McAlister said the closet teaches lessons at every step, from logistics to customer service.

"Students are building workplace and communication skills while also learning how meaningful it can be to serve their community," GOAL instructor Terri McAlister said.

The GOAL program, run by Everett Public Schools, bridges high school and adult life. It focuses on employment, independent living and connections to community agencies for students who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The district serves more than 2,900 students eligible for special education services, ages 3 to 22.

The clothing closet builds on a broader partnership between GOAL and the Carl Gipson Center, which is operated by Volunteers of America Western Washington.

In April, GOAL students and Carl Gipson Center seniors took a joint trip to the University of Washington using public transit. McAlister and center activities coordinator Kerri Schwindt led the outing, during which students showed seniors how to use ORCA cards and navigate the system.

School board president Traci Mitchell attended the transition program graduation ceremony June 10 and praised GOAL and Project SEARCH students for their courage in speaking to a large group, according to board minutes.

The closet's greatest current need is men's and women's clothing appropriate for the season. Donations of new or gently used items can be dropped off at the Carl Gipson Center during regular hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.