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The Missouri Hospice & Palliative Care Association has awarded Kathy Corbin with the 2018 Heart of Hospice Award for her unique jewelry recycling program at Top Drawer, an upscale resale boutique in Leawood benefitting Kansas City Hospice.
Each year hospices from around the state nominate individuals and programs in the following categories; employee, administrative volunteer, patient care volunteer, hospice aide, program award, and life time achievement award. MHPCA nominating committee reviews all the nominations to select a winner in each category. Kathy Corbin was chosen as the 2018 Administrative Volunteer Heart of Hospice Award winner.
Kathy Corbin became a volunteer for Top Drawer after selling her bead business and realizing that she wanted to lend her support to the hospice that helped care for someone close to her. She saw that the one jewelry case at the Leawood resale boutique was pretty empty. Jewelry donations came in, but so many pieces were broken or so outdated. Kathy began by quickly repairing what could be fixed and then turning her eye to all the broken necklaces and brooches. She quickly realized they could become bits and pieces to be incorporated into new designs.
At first, Kathy brought in all the supplies, but she thought of the many vendors around the country who would have extra supplies they might donate. After a few calls she realized that not one vendor said no! Extra stock and supplies began arriving and Kathy built a jewelry design studio in her basement. She quickly began sorting through all the broken bits, filling tubs by color and style. Then the magic happened. Kathy’s designs were trendy, innovative and true works of art. They sold!
A second designer joined the effort and every Friday they create one of a kind jewelry sold exclusively at Top Drawer. Top Drawer just celebrated its 15th anniversary. Completely staff with volunteers and with merchandise 100% donated by local shops and the public, Top Drawer is not your typical charity thrift shop. New and gently used clothing, accessories and home décor often feature designer brands.
Kathy Corbin’s unique vision, dedication and creativity earned her this year’s Heart of Hospice Award, to be received on February 14 at an awards ceremony in Jefferson City. Her jewelry may be purchased exclusively at Top Drawer, 9433 Mission.
Kathy Corbin and David Wiley at 2018 Heart of Hospice Award ceremony
Kathy Corbin and her original jewelry designs
Kathy Corbin designs sold exclusively at Top Drawer