4828 W Emerald St, Boise, ID 83706

Fueled by Faith & Cherished Friends

Volunteer Spotlight: The Women Behind the Movement

Every movement is built by people who care enough to act. At Purses With a Purpose, our volunteers are the heart of our mission. They’re the reason thousands of purses have reached women in crisis. Each one brings their own story, their own energy, and their own way of making the world a little brighter.

Volunteers come from all walks of life — teachers, students, retirees, business owners, mothers, and daughters. What unites them is a shared desire to lift others up. They gather weekly to sort donations, clean and prepare purses, and write thoughtful notes of encouragement. Some spend their weekends collecting items from friends and family; others help coordinate fundraising events or delivery logistics.

These women understand that service doesn’t always make headlines — sometimes, it’s the quiet work behind the scenes that changes lives the most. In our packing sessions, laughter fills the room. Strangers become friends as they share stories and tie ribbons around each finished purse. There’s something profoundly healing about helping others while surrounded by a community that believes in kindness.

For many of our volunteers, the work is personal. Some have faced hardships themselves or known someone who has. Packing a purse is more than a task — it’s a way of paying forward the support they once received.

What our volunteers do every week:

  • Collect and organize donated purses and hygiene products

  • Assemble “care purses” with essential and comfort items

  • Write heartfelt notes to include in every bag

  • Plan events, fundraisers, and outreach campaigns

  • Deliver purses to partner shelters and crisis centers

Beyond the logistics, volunteering at Purses With a Purpose is about belonging. It’s a reminder that empathy is contagious — and when women support women, incredible things happen. We’re always looking for new volunteers, whether you can give one hour a month or one day a week.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a difference, start here. Because behind every purse we give, there’s a team of women who gave their time, their energy, and their hearts.

How You Can Help

Your contribution, big or small, creates a ripple effect of change. Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Donate – Every dollar helps us purchase supplies and fill more purses.

  • Give Supplies – Toiletries, feminine products, and new or gently used handbags are always in need.

  • Volunteer – From packing purses to organizing drives, there’s a place for everyone on our team.

  • Fundraise & Share – Spread the word and rally your community to support women in need.

Together, we can expand pathways to freedom, safety, and hope.

Our Mission, Your Questions

Purses With a Purpose is dedicated to restoring dignity and hope to women in need across our community. Through the collection and distribution of handbags filled with essential items, we provide comfort, encouragement, and a tangible reminder that every woman matters. Whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your involvement helps us uplift women facing hardship and remind them they’re not alone.

What is Purses With a Purpose?

Purses With a Purpose is a Boise-based nonprofit organization that collects new and gently used handbags filled with essential hygiene and comfort items. These purses are donated to women in shelters, transitional housing, and crisis situations throughout Idaho to bring a message of hope, dignity, and compassion.

How did the organization get started?

Founded by local community members who wanted to make a tangible difference for women in need, Purses With a Purpose began as a small grassroots effort. What started with a few friends collecting handbags has grown into a community-wide movement supported by volunteers, businesses, and donors across the Treasure Valley.

Who benefits from the purses?

Our purses are distributed to women and teens served by Idaho shelters, crisis centers, and nonprofit partners. Recipients include survivors of domestic violence, women experiencing homelessness, and those rebuilding their lives after hardship.

What kinds of items go inside the purses?

Each purse is filled with a mix of new or unopened essentials such as shampoo, deodorant, soap, lotion, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, socks, tissues, snacks, and encouraging notes or cards. Donors can also include small personal touches—like a journal or piece of jewelry—to make it special.

How can I donate?

You can donate new or gently used purses, individual hygiene items, or pre-filled purses. We host regular community collection drives and maintain drop-off locations throughout the Boise area. Monetary donations are also welcome and go directly toward purchasing supplies and supporting our outreach programs.

Can I volunteer with Purses With a Purpose?

Absolutely! Volunteers are the heart of what we do. You can help by collecting items, hosting a purse drive at your workplace or church, assembling purses at our community events, or helping with deliveries. Visit our “Get Involved” page to sign up for upcoming opportunities.