Totes of Appreciation was created in 2022 by Thom Gober, founder of Gracylane boutiques.
A strong supporter of education and educators, Thom was inspired to lend his support in a more meaningful way. For several years, his stores had collected school supplies to donate to local schools in need. Customers were encouraged to contribute, receiving discounts in return. However, it soon became clear that the demand for supplies far exceeded the donations. Thus, the idea for Totes of Appreciation was born.
Within just eight weeks, Thom, his team at Gracylane, and the Cafaro Company organized the first Totes of Appreciation event. Over 150 teachers from Trumbull County attended a fun-filled evening at the Events Center in Eastwood Mall. Upon arrival, each teacher received a tote bag—generously donated by Vera Bradley—filled with gifts from Gracylane vendors. The evening featured group activities in the arts and sciences, presentations by leading educational speakers, vendor displays, a large basket raffle, and refreshments. At the end of the night, teachers were invited to fill their totes with free school supplies.
The overwhelming response from educators at this first event inspired Thom and his team to continue their efforts. In 2023, Totes of Appreciation hosted events for over 650 teachers across school districts in three different counties: Trumbull County, Mahoning County, and Erie, PA. That same year, Totes of Appreciation officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In 2024, the events welcomed over 750 teachers.
Thom’s goal in creating this event and nonprofit was to give back to those who give so much of themselves and ask for so little in return—teachers who inspire students, ignite talents, and foster a lifelong love of learning. Volunteers at these events are often moved to tears by the stories they hear and the deep gratitude shown by the educators. It is truly a special and heartwarming experience that Thom, the volunteers, and the teachers eagerly look forward to each year.