When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Out of the Closet - Berkeley
Why Out of the Closet - Berkeley is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Out of the Closet - Berkeley is a unique thrift store that offers much more than just shopping. It is a vibrant community hub known for its wide selection of eye-catching, well-curated items you won't find anywhere else, including clothing, furniture, kitchenware, home décor, and more. Whether you're meeting friends for a casual visit or searching for distinctive treasures, the store provides a welcoming atmosphere. A key highlight is that 96 cents of every dollar made supports HIV care and services provided by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, making each purchase a contribution to a meaningful cause. The store also offers free HIV testing by trained clinicians in a stigma-free environment, further emphasizing its commitment to community health. Additionally, Out of the Closet encourages donations with easy in-store drop-offs and scheduled pick-ups for large items, providing convenience whether you want to declutter or support their mission. The friendly staff and vibrant inventory make the Berkeley location a great place to connect with friends while supporting an impactful social cause.
Here's what people think of Out of the Closet - Berkeley
As of recent, Out of the Closet - Berkeley holds a 4.1-star rating based on 201 reviews.
Reviews of Out of the Closet - Berkeley show a mixed but generally positive perception from both employees and customers. Employees appreciate the structured environment, helpful management, and fair distribution of schedules, highlighting the store as a good place for stepping stone employment with some benefits such as holiday gift cards and free clothing. However, some former staff mention challenges including stressful interactions with demanding customers and concerns about safety due to lack of security measures. Customers frequently praise the store for its unique product selection and the positive impact their purchases have on HIV care services, valuing the community-driven mission. Some negative feedback revolves around occasional issues with store layout or inventory limitations, but these are minor compared to the positive community and shopping experience. Overall, the reviews conclude that Out of the Closet - Berkeley is a meaningful and enjoyable place to shop and work, with a strong commitment to serving the community and supporting health initiatives.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kei Loves2Travel&Eat
Awesome thrift shop. Good prices. Highly recommend.
Haley Geller
I used to really like to shop here, and I really want to support their cause, but their pricing has gone insane! Shoes were $20-$30, Jeans were $15-35 - even ones from Target that wouldn’t cost that much brand new! I also saw a jacket covered in mold that they wanted $35 for and a jumpsuit that was dragging on the ground and filthy for $120! Then I saw this J Crew Blazer that is currently selling on J Crew for $75 with a price tag for $150!!!
Anon E. Mouse
This is a nice thrift store with a range of clothing for both men and women, along with a good book selection organized by color, appliances, shoes, etc. The items are well organized and range from $1 bargains to more expensive items.
Leo Cheung
I saw most people came here for clothes, but they do have a huge collection of other things as well. Books for example, paperback 1 dollar, hardcover 2 dollars. I have no idea what those books are about, but as I went through the shelves I did find something interesting! They also have quite a lot of vinyls and CDs, I saw some good CDs, some of those vinyls are also interesting, but I just don’t have a turntable with me in Berkeley to play records... The clothes are also in good condition and very cheap, some are quite stylish! People working in there are also very nice! This place is surprisingly good!
John Larkin
(one issue.. since I often get there late - the folks working there turn off the hip music track one hour before closing and you can feel the bad vibes, frowns - and brusque reminders of closing soon - seems they want everyone out asap. w/o the music the place becomes two-dimensional)/////. You get the hand-me-downs from well-dressed college kids. Albeit sizes favor the svelt young things, i.e. small. Well organized compared to other outlets. I was especially tickled by the way they organized the many books.). They keep them by the color of the outside of the books - red books w red books, etc. How fun. - There's a lot of music CDs if you are willing to pry them from the piles, and look behind for the hidden stacks/ prices are still lower than the SF outlet, but the clothes are often stained. And half the women's clothes are mixed in with the mens it seems sometimes.
How to reach Out of the Closet - Berkeley
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Why Out of the Closet - Berkeley may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Out of the Closet - Berkeley with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup at Out of the Closet - Berkeley offers more than just a shopping experience. It is a vibrant community hub where every purchase supports a greater cause—funding HIV care and services through the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. This unique thrift store combines the joy of finding eclectic, high-quality items with the satisfaction of contributing to meaningful social impact. Hosting a meetup here allows your group to engage in a shared activity with a purpose. Whether you're fashion enthusiasts hunting for distinctive vintage clothing, bargain lovers searching for hidden gems, or simply friends wanting to spend quality time exploring diverse merchandise, Out of the Closet seamlessly blends socializing, shopping, and philanthropy. Its welcoming environment encourages conversation, discovery, and camaraderie, making it perfect for groups looking for an interactive and fulfilling outing. Furthermore, the store’s mission fosters a positive energy that makes your gathering more meaningful, reminding you and your friends that you’re supporting health and community care with every purchase. The inclusive, friendly atmosphere provides a safe and comfortable space where everyone can enjoy themselves while making a difference.
What activities can you enjoy at Out of the Closet - Berkeley with a group?
Out of the Closet - Berkeley provides a variety of engaging activities that make it an excellent choice for group meetups. First, there is the treasure-hunting aspect: with a well-curated selection of clothes, furniture, kitchenware, electronics, and unique collectibles like film and TV memorabilia, your group can split up and explore different sections, then share finds and bargain stories. This experience acts as a communal adventure, sparking discussions and bonding over special items discovered. Additionally, donating items together is an activity that connects friends with a shared purpose. The convenient in-store donation process and scheduled pick-ups allow groups to coordinate decluttering efforts, turning it into a collaborative and impactful event. Throughout your visit, the casual, stigma-free environment enhances the experience by encouraging openness and inclusivity. Plus, since 96 cents of every dollar made goes directly to HIV care and services, every activity here feels meaningful, blending fun and social responsibility. In sum, your group can engage in shopping, donating, discovering hidden treasures, sharing stories, and supporting a critical cause, which makes Out of the Closet more than just a store but a place for memorable group interactions.
Why is Out of the Closet - Berkeley perfect for a group meetup?
Out of the Closet - Berkeley’s layout and mission create a unique space that caters well to groups. The store features spacious aisles and multiple departments, allowing group members to explore independently or together without crowding. The moderate size of the store ensures a comprehensive browsing experience while maintaining an intimate atmosphere that fosters conversation and connection. The staff’s friendly and approachable demeanor enhances group visits, as they are available to assist and answer questions, adding to a comfortable and relaxed vibe. The cause-driven nature of the store infuses gatherings with shared purpose and inspires meaningful conversations beyond typical retail chatter, which strengthens the social ties among friends and family. Hosting a meetup here also offers flexibility since the store’s hours accommodate varied schedules, opening as early as 10 AM and staying open until 7 PM on some days, allowing your group to plan visits at your convenience. Most importantly, Out of the Closet encourages a welcoming community space where everyone, regardless of background, can feel safe, seen, and supported, which is invaluable when organizing meetups focused on inclusivity and kindness. This combination of physical space, dedicated staff, socially conscious mission, and flexible timing makes it an ideal destination for groups.
What unique features does the Berkeley location offer for visitors?
The Berkeley location of Out of the Closet stands out for its integration into the local community with a focus on inclusivity and health support. It offers free HIV testing provided by trained clinicians, which is rare for thrift stores and adds a layer of community care often absent from typical shopping venues. This service ensures that the store is not only a commercial place but also a health and wellness resource, creating a stigma-free environment where people can feel comfortable gathering and supporting one another. The merchandise is well-curated, reflecting Berkeley’s diverse and creative population, making it particularly appealing to those seeking unique fashion, artwork, and cultural items. Donations accepted here are broad, ranging from clothing and furniture to musical instruments and collectibles, which means visitors can contribute in a variety of ways or find a wide range of items on their visits. Moreover, with a community-focused approach where 96 cents of every dollar goes back to HIV care services, your group meetup here supports local and global causes, adding profound meaning to your outing while enjoying a diverse shopping and social experience.
How does shopping at Out of the Closet support the community?
Shopping at Out of the Closet directly benefits the community by funneling nearly all proceeds—96 cents of every dollar—into HIV care and services through the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. This funding supports free HIV testing, treatment, education, and social services, which are vital to ensuring health equity and empowering people living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS. The store’s model transforms typical retail activity into an act of charity: every item you buy, whether it’s clothing, furniture, or collectibles, contributes to ongoing community health initiatives. This framework creates a strong community bond as shoppers know their spending has a tangible, positive impact beyond personal enjoyment. For groups, this shared purpose can inspire deeper engagement and conversation, making meetups both fun and meaningful. Additionally, by donating goods to the Berkeley location, you help keep the store stocked while supporting recycling and sustainability efforts, reducing waste, and fostering a circular economy. Hence, every visit becomes a contribution, combining environmental consciousness with social responsibility to create a better community.
What makes Out of the Closet - Berkeley’s atmosphere ideal for group gatherings?
The atmosphere at Out of the Closet - Berkeley is intentionally warm, safe, and inclusive, making it perfect for groups of friends or family to gather and enjoy their time together. Unlike conventional thrift stores that can sometimes feel chaotic or impersonal, this location prioritizes creating a stigma-free, welcoming environment where everyone feels respected and supported. The store’s staff plays a crucial role in cultivating this atmosphere by being approachable and helpful, encouraging visitors to feel comfortable exploring and socializing. The open layout allows groups to move freely between aisles and departments, facilitating conversation and collective discovery. This is enhanced by the diversity of the merchandise and the shared goal of supporting health initiatives, which often sparks meaningful discussions. The store’s community-focused mission adds a layer of connection, as groups feel part of a larger cause while enjoying their meetup. All these elements combine to offer an environment that feels more like a community space than just a retail store—a factor that can make your group outing memorable and fulfilling.
How can groups plan a meetup at Out of the Closet - Berkeley?
Planning a meetup at Out of the Closet - Berkeley is straightforward and flexible, accommodating various group sizes and interests. First, consider what activities your group enjoys—whether it’s shopping for clothes and collectibles, donating items together, or using the store’s unique community services like HIV testing to make the visit more enriching. The store’s opening hours—from 10 AM to as late as 7 PM on weekdays—offer ample scheduling options to fit busy social calendars. If your group plans to donate large items, coordinating a scheduled pick-up through their easy online form provides a hassle-free service that can be arranged in advance. When arriving as a group, it may be helpful to discuss interests beforehand to ensure everyone finds something enjoyable, such as assigning different areas for exploration or setting a shared goal, like finding a unique home decor piece or a vintage clothing item. Lastly, combining your visit with a nearby café or park in Berkeley can extend the meetup, making it a full-day social event. The store’s friendly environment and community mission create a natural backdrop for an organized, purposeful, and fun gathering.
What kinds of items can groups expect to find at Out of the Closet - Berkeley?
At Out of the Closet - Berkeley, groups can expect a rich variety of items that cater to diverse tastes and curiosities. This includes clothing for men and women, often featuring vintage and contemporary styles that appeal to fashion enthusiasts or those hunting for unique wardrobe pieces. Beyond apparel, the store stocks furniture, kitchenware, appliances, and home decor, perfect for anyone looking to furnish or refresh living spaces with distinctive thrifted finds. Electronics, tools, musical instruments, books, film and TV memorabilia, CDs, and records add layers of cultural and artistic appeal, making each visit a potential discovery adventure. The diversity of merchandise allows groups to split up or browse collectively, sharing excitement about their finds. This variety also makes the store ideal for gifting or seasonal shopping, as you can find unexpected treasures in many categories. Because the inventory often reflects donations from the eclectic Berkeley community, each visit offers new surprises, ensuring the experience remains fresh and engaging for groups returning multiple times.
Why is community impact an important aspect of meeting at Out of the Closet - Berkeley?
Meeting at Out of the Closet - Berkeley is enriched by its strong emphasis on community impact, transforming a social gathering into an opportunity for collective philanthropy. Since almost all proceeds support HIV care and services, your meetup contributes directly to healthcare access and education for vulnerable populations. This creates a shared sense of purpose among friends or family, deepening connections through compassion and social responsibility. The store’s free HIV testing service also embodies this commitment and can serve as an educational and health resource for your group if desired. Participating in or supporting such a cause during your visit allows your meetup to transcend typical social interactions, fostering awareness and empathy. Moreover, the act of shopping sustainably and donating items promotes environmental stewardship, offering another layer of positive impact your group can celebrate. The presence of this mission within a social space strengthens community ties and encourages ongoing support, making Out of the Closet a meaningful and inspiring venue for group events.
How does visiting Out of the Closet - Berkeley provide educational benefits for groups?
Visiting Out of the Closet - Berkeley offers educational benefits, especially around health awareness, sustainable living, and social responsibility, making it an enriching experience for groups. The store provides free, confidential HIV testing from trained professionals, which can serve as a valuable resource to increase understanding and reduce stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS within your social circle. This health service is integrated into the store’s welcoming environment, allowing informal discussions and learning opportunities. Additionally, the thrift store promotes sustainable shopping by encouraging purchasing secondhand goods and donating usable items, which provides a practical lesson in reducing environmental impact and supporting a circular economy. Groups can engage in conversations about the social and health issues connected to the store’s mission, gaining awareness and empathy. This mix of learning opportunities combined with an enjoyable shopping experience makes a group visit not only fun but also enlightening, encouraging participants to become more informed and conscientious community members.
What are some tips for maximizing your group experience at Out of the Closet - Berkeley?
To maximize your group experience at Out of the Closet - Berkeley, plan ahead to align activities with your group's interests, whether it’s focused on shopping, donating, or engaging with the community health services offered. Schedule your visit during less crowded times, such as weekday mornings or early afternoons, to ensure ample space and a more personal shopping experience. Divide the group into smaller teams if you want to cover different sections quickly and then regroup to share discoveries, which encourages lively interaction and keeps everyone engaged. Bring items for donation if you want to participate in giving back together; large donations can be arranged for pick-up to make the process smooth. Encourage your friends or family to ask store staff about items or services, fostering connection and deeper understanding. Lastly, consider pairing your visit with nearby Berkeley eateries or parks to extend the social interaction beyond the store, making your meetup a memorable day of community, fun, and friendship.
By focusing your group gathering around Out of the Closet - Berkeley, you not only enjoy an engaging thrift shopping experience tailored to diverse tastes but also contribute meaningfully to a community dedicated to health and support. The combination of unique merchandise, a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, community-driven mission, and educational opportunities makes it an outstanding choice for meetups with friends or family.