Our Mission:
Our mission is to promote re-use within the Washington University community through the free exchange and affordable sale of donated goods. By giving these items another life, we're actively combatting waste and diverting items away from the landfill as well as providing an affordable and accessible resource for students.
SWAP began with a simple idea:
People often throw away useful items because it’s easier than finding them a new home. WashU alone generates millions of pounds of waste each year, much of which is still reusable.
A group of students asked, “What if we could change that?”
By collecting items during move-out and making them available again at move-in, they created a cycle of reuse that saves money, reduces waste, and strengthens community. What started as a small student effort has grown into a nonprofit with long-term impact through our storefront.
Since our founding, we have distributed about $116,042 worth of merchandise, diverting 5 tons of waste from landfills. Today, SWAP connects students and the St. Louis community with sustainable practices, proving that small changes can add up to something big.
“We strive to create interconnected networks of mutual solidarity and support. Our collective efforts make possible a future in which all people have access to the resources needed to thrive.”
Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP)
SWAP is part of the Washington University Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP), which provides a unique opportunity for students to own a business on campus. Student leaders can supplement their valuable business and entrepreneurial skills they learn in the classroom while gaining real world experience as they manage and lead their own businesses. Benefits include:
Subsidized on-campus storefront space in Gregg House
On-campus solicitation of business
Organized speaker series and owner roundtable meetings
Leadership opportunities within the StEP Executive Board
Campus mailbox
Card access to residence halls
Access to mailing labels for student mailing
StEP website and virtual mall
StEP Loan Fund
What we do:
Since 2008, SWAP has worked to make sustainability simple and accessible.
Each spring, we gather reusable items left behind as students move out, then we clean and store them for the summer. In the fall, these goods are sold at a low cost during the student move-in period, helping students save money while reducing waste.
Our year-round storefront on campus makes it easy to pick up everyday items completely free, creating a space where re-use becomes part of daily life. Students love finding what they need without spending a dime, helping both the planet and their wallets. We provide students with clothing, textbooks, accessories, and more.
Beyond the WashU campus, SWAP builds partnerships, hosts free events, and shares resources to promote sustainability across St. Louis in collaboration with other organizations.
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Interested in joining the team?
If you’re a freshmen or sophomore looking to join SWAP, we hold recruitment in the fall of each year. SWAP is fueled by the passion of students who care about making a difference in their community, and we would love for you join us. Learn more here.
