Milestones, Momentum, and the Road Ahead: Wrapping Up Our October Spotlight on Full Circle Sustainability
As we come toward the close of an eventful month celebrating Full Circle Sustainability, it’s time to look back at everything we’ve covered. Because October spans across five weeks with that split start at the beginning of the month, our spotlight has been able to truly capture the breadth of what this grassroots nonprofit achieves. Over the past several weeks, we’ve explored how they grew from a 2019 conversation between co-founders Robert and Justine into a thriving physical storefront at the CRC CARE Center @ Stout.
We’ve looked at their unique services—from zero-packaging bulk soaps and sustainable groceries to recycling and composting—and watched how they actively debunk the myth that eco-friendly living is only for the affluent. We’ve even seen how hands-on events like Fix-It Clinics and yard waste collections bring Topeka together to solve real-world problems.
As we wrap up our spotlight, let’s look at the exciting momentum Full Circle is carrying into the future and how you can stay involved.
Incredible Milestones: Growth at the CRC CARE Center
The past year has been a period of remarkable transformation for Full Circle. Thanks to affordable rent and shared amenities like conference rooms, media centers, and daily operational support at the CRC CARE Center @ Stout, their small-scale delivery service has blossomed.
Just look at what they’ve accomplished recently:
Doubled Their Space: Over the past year, they have successfully doubled their footprint at the CRC.
Upgraded Equipment: They installed a large walk-in cooler to better manage fresh local food storage.
Expanding the Team: They are currently on the cusp of hiring their first-ever employee!
Organic Community Buzz: They are hearing more and more people organically recommend and reference them around town—often without even knowing anyone from Full Circle is listening.
The Big Vision for Topeka and Beyond
Full Circle's founders aren't slowing down anytime soon. Their long-term vision aims to reshape regional sustainability:
Regional Food Hub: Scaling up their grocery distribution model so farmers in places like Great Bend can efficiently sell goods in markets like Kansas City.
Staffed Recycling Center: Dreaming of a dedicated, drive-thru drop-off location open during convenient hours for everything from cardboard to electronics, ideally partnered with Shawnee County Solid Waste.
Composting Solutions: Continuing to push past regulatory roadblocks to establish public drop-off or curbside food scrap pickup options.
How to Support Full Circle All Year Round
Full Circle’s growth comes down to two simple things: relationships and money. You don’t need to spend a single dollar to make a massive difference. You can help by spreading the word, introducing them to local decision-makers, or inviting them to speak to your organization or business. And if you have the means, shopping at their storefront or making a financial donation directly supports a frugal organization doing vital work.
Get involved in upcoming seasonal events:
Curbside Yard Waste Collection (Volunteers Needed!): October 24, November 7, and November 21 (Learn more and sign up here).
Fix-It Clinic: November 14, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Get details here).
Thank you for joining us all month long as we celebrated Full Circle Sustainability! To keep up with their weekly updates, browse their shop, or learn more, visit the Full Circle Sustainability Website or check out their Facebook Page.