Cougar Closet

Dress for success

Did you know there’s a place right here at Indiana University Kokomo that can help you look your best – for free? Whether you have a job interview coming up, a special event, or a networking opportunity, the Cougar Closet is here to help IUK students make a strong impression.

Opened in fall 2021 by the Women in Business and Student Marketing organizations, the Cougar Closet is located in the Main Building, Room 180, and operated by student volunteers during the school year. All items are free to students in need.

Donations are also accepted, to continue and promote sustainable clothing and textile practices.

The Cougar Closet is closed for the summer and will reopen this fall.

IUK Mascot Kingston holding a jacket

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cougar Closet?

The Cougar Closet is a sustainability initiative at Indiana University Kokomo, opened and promoted by the Women in Business organization.

What is your contact information?

Instagram: @iukcougarcloset

Email: ccloset@iu.edu

How can I visit the Cougar Closet?
The Cougar Closet is located at Indiana University Kokomo, Main Building, KO 180.

Do I need to return items?
No, all items are free to keep. If you find that you are no longer using items, you can re-donate them, as well as any other professional attire that you are no longer wearing.

Is the Cougar Closet a sustainability initiative?

Yes. By accepting gently used clothing, our goal is to reduce waste going to landfills. With textile waste making up 5 percent of landfills, we can make a difference. Did you know the average person throws away 70 pounds of clothing and textiles per year?

What does the Cougar Closet accept as donations?
We accept gently used and new professional attire and accessories for men and women which includes shoes, ties, jewelry, and clothing.

Why should I donate?
Donating and reusing items helps to support our sustainability project by keeping the planet safe and healthy, as well as helping others who may not have the money to buy items like these.

How can I donate items to the Cougar Closet?
All donations are greatly appreciated. Items can be dropped off anytime during hours of operation or you can contact us directly to arrange a drop-off time that is convenient for you.

If the hours of operation do not work for you, please feel free to bring donations to the IUK Business Office, Main Building, KO 185 Monday – Friday from 9 – 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 – 4 p.m., or contact us by email at ccloset@iu.edu, and we will arrange a time for you to come in.

Will I receive a tax-deduction receipt for donating?
Donation receipts are available upon request.

Can Cougar Closet pick up my donations?
Unfortunately, we are unable to pick up donations.

Who do I contact to volunteer in the Cougar Closet?

Are you an IU Kokomo student with a flair for fashion?  Then you are just the person we are looking for to help us serve IU Kokomo students in the Cougar Closet.  Volunteer hours are flexible to fit your schedule.  Interested?  Contact the Cougar Closet ccloset@iu.edu for additional information.

The Cougar Closet is supported by a Women of the Well House Grant
as well as financial contributions of other supporters.

Hours

Monday: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursday: 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday and Friday: Closed

Questions

If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions about how the Cougar Closet can better serve the student community, please send an email to ccloset@iu.edu.

What's in the closet?

  • Two-and three-piece suits
  • Dress shirts
  • Dress pants
  • Skirts


  • Dresses
  • Blouses
  • Shoes
  • Ties and other accessories