Sunshine Award Winner: A Store Named Stuff
By Kristen Hampshire

A Store Named Stuff has a giving philosophy for its business.

For 30 years, A Store Named Stuff has celebrated makers and uplifted nonprofits in Kansas City, Missouri, inspired by the creative and connected sisters, Casey and Sloane Simmons. Their business has evolved and grown much bigger, but its people-first philosophy is a constant and the core mission.


“We believe in people, not product,” Sloane says. “Everything we give stays in Kansas City and reflects the values we built this store on.”


“Everything we give stays in Kansas City and reflects the values we built this store on.” — Sloane Simmons


Casey says they’re constantly asking, “How can we be good stewards and help our community be better and stronger?”



Creative generosity

The sisters accomplish this in three ways. First, the shop donates hundreds of auction items each year to local schools and organizations.


The store takes pride in its community with souvenirs like bright name-drop caps.
Photos: Tiffany Buckley

Also, the sisters take on sponsorship and leadership roles with Kansas City nonprofits, chairing galas, serving on boards and leveraging their networks to amplify missions. They often add a creative twist like commissioning artists to craft centerpieces that are later auctioned to raise additional funds.


Finally, a series of five Giving Tuesdays kicks off in early December with the three-day Wings of Hope open house event, where 15% of every purchase supports cancer research at the University of Kansas.


There, Casey and Sloane have established the Simmons Family Cancer Research Fund to honor their late parents.



A welcoming place

Giving is key for A Store Named Stuff. The sisters thoughtfully select five nonprofits with a rolling three-year commitment to make a deeper impact. They’ve supported more than 30 diverse charities this way and receive stacks of inquiries. Above all, the giving is personal and points back to their purpose: “Everyone is welcome,” Casey says.


Sunshine Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through
charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.sgnmag.com/sunshine-award.