Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — A new community resource in Foley will help local nonprofit and civic organizations access event equipment at no cost. Lee Charities announced the opening of The Sharing Shed, which will provide free tables, chairs, tablecloths and pop-up tents to qualifying groups. The program aims to reduce rental expenses for community organizations so they can direct more resources toward their missions. The Sharing Shed will begin operations from its Foley location.

The Sharing Shed will open for business on December 1, 2025. Lee Charities created the program to support nonprofits and community groups hosting events, fundraisers and gatherings throughout Baldwin County. The lending program operates like a community library, allowing approved organizations to reserve and check out equipment for free.

Mitchell Lee, Vice President of Lee Charities, said the organization wants to support the many nonprofits and groups working to improve Baldwin County. He said Lee Charities is excited to provide The Sharing Shed as a resource to the community. The centrally located facility will serve organizations across the county.

Penny Hughey, Director of Community Development at Lee Charities, said every table lent out becomes a place for people to come together. She explained that the initiative focuses on connection rather than just convenience. Hughey brings more than 35 years of professional event planning experience to the program and will offer guidance to nonprofits planning community events.

Jessica Ware, Development Director at Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center, praised Hughey's work after a recent collaboration. Ware said Hughey provided invaluable guidance in planning one of their nonprofit events. She noted that Hughey's deep event expertise and commitment to the community made a tremendous impact. Ware said she is grateful that Lee Charities will now offer the same assistance to other organizations.

Lee Charities hopes The Sharing Shed will inspire collaboration and connection across Baldwin County. The organization welcomes donations of new or gently used event equipment. Volunteers are also needed to help maintain the space. Nonprofits interested in using The Sharing Shed can request items by emailing PennyPHughey@gmail.com. 

Lee Charities is a Baldwin County nonprofit whose mission is to elevate the nonprofit and social services network through leadership, insights and giving. The organization envisions a thriving, collaborative nonprofit community that works together to meet the needs of all Baldwin County residents.