Meet Ella!

Get to know the newest member of the Simply the Basics' team: Ella Rubin, SB Intern!

How did you first learn about Simply the Basics? What drew you to the program?

Simply the Basics really drew me in because of the complex values and mission. There are many barriers that one may face while homeless or financially struggling that are not often thought of. It is vital to have an organization that connects organizations, promotes health, and understands that not all people have the same needs. Once I heard about the program, it seemed so obvious that this is necessary.

Which Simply the Basics program do you feel the most passionately about and why?

I am very excited about The Marketplace program that is starting in the fall. The program allows nonprofits to use resources and materials in the most productive way possible. In turn, this will create a much more interconnected and effective network. Sustainability and efficiency is incredibly important to me, and I’m so glad it is incorporated into the mission of Simply the Basics. I am a huge proponent of sustainability in my own personal life, including sweatshop free and environmentally friendly fashion. In addition to the tremendous impact of Simply the Basics, the methods used are really thoughtful in achieving its goals and directly align with my values.

What personal hygiene product could you not live without?

I could not live without a toothbrush. Though it is very simple, not having a toothbrush and toothpaste at my disposal would be difficult to surmount and it would be so difficult to focus on the day.

Are there any particular moments in your life that you can point to as being influential in your desire to give back to the community?

For the last two years I have been part of a youth group called the Jewish Teen Foundation, which is a program of around 30 teenagers that create a mission statement, research organizations, fundraise, and allocate funds to various nonprofits. It empowered me to feel that, even though I am a highschool student, I have the ability to make a real impact.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

I am a huge fan of the Rocky Horror Picture Show and I go every month when it shows at the Clay Theater!