Carole LeClair

Carole LeClair, the unofficial “patron reuse goddess,” has given over 9,500 hours of passion, creativity, and selfless action to Austin Creative Reuse helping to divert one million pounds of usable creative materials from the landfill.

A lifelong, serial volunteer with organizations ranging from the Society of Women Engineers and Girl Scouts to St. David’s Episcopal Church Children’s Ministry and numerous environmental organizations, Carole found her passion for improving her community and the environment at Austin Creative Reuse. She started volunteering with ACR in 2012 by organizing monthly Craft Nights, but it wasn’t long before she joined the board of directors. She also organized ACR’s first major fundraiser, “Raise the Roof,” which led directly to the opening of the first brick and mortar location of ACR in 2015 – and Carole hasn’t slowed down since. It would be no exaggeration to say that ACR would not be where it is today without her passion, thoughtful judgment, natural leadership, and ability to jump in with two feet on anything that needs to be done.

As the current Board President, Carole has had a greater impact on the growth and development of Austin Creative Reuse than any other ACR volunteer. She gives her time and her talent with no expectation of anything in return except an improved environment and community. She hauls the stuff, (wo)mans the table, sorts the things, rolls the fabric, is the resident sewing expert, scours Craigslist for fixtures, makes about a million succulent gardens for fundraisers, and hosts the parties and so much more.

“In my experience as a volunteer, it is rare to find a person that truly believes in the volunteer work they are doing and can transfer their enthusiasm for the work to staff and volunteers – Carole has that unique ability!” said ACR volunteer Nancy Lyon.

Carole is known by staff and volunteers for being inclusive, welcoming, and focused on leading ACR to success.