This image is not what you think.

This clutter came from overwhelm and hard life circumstances, not from a disorganized person.

We get to work with some incredible, resilient people. Sharing their stories helps more neighbors get the help they need.

The story

This family had to move quickly and under a lot of stress. This mom hit the ground running by:

• Continuing to provide for her girls

• Getting them to and from school

• Starting a new job

• Settling into a new community

There just weren't enough hours to get the house in order. We made a plan for the piles of jumbled belongings and dove right in.

Step 1: Sort

We worked together to sort items and decide what would stay.

• Grouped similar items: art supplies, keepsakes, important papers, toys

• Tossed trash and donated kid items the family had outgrown

• Moved items to the room where they belong

Step 2: Store

We chose clear categories and gave every item a home by:

• Adding storage shelves

• Grouping categories into bins

• Arranging bins for the easiest daily flow

Step 3: Systemize

We locked in the progress with simple systems that make it easy to keep up.

• Labeled bins and drawers (with pictures for the youngest, who wasn't reading yet)

• Set up daily habits for putting things back

Here's the reveal:

The best part

She was great at sorting and making decisions, and she had already started systems of her own before we arrived:

• A shoe rack by the front door. Her girls already knew to leave their shoes there, and the older one happily reminded her little sister.

• Dresser drawer categories. Each dresser had a set spot for socks, pants, shorts and underwear, so mornings were easier.

• An outdoor activity closet. One closet held gear for the family's favorite Colorado outdoor adventures.

Under the clutter was an organized person who just needed a few extra hands. She's a lot like many of us.

No one should have to work through this kind of emotional clutter alone. If you know someone who could use extra support, refer them to Impactful Organizing.

Help a neighbor

Impactful Organizing is a Colorado Springs nonprofit that brings practical relief to neighbors who need it most. These projects happen because of community support. Donate today. Every gift makes a difference.