By: Yasmine Malone | June 15, 2026
CLARKSDALE, Miss. — On June 13, 2026, the annual J. Dobbins Community Closet brought together local organizations, volunteers, and residents for a day of service and community support at the former Walmart parking lot.
Years ago, Lashun Payno introduced the idea of creating a Clarksdale Community Closet, a community-wide outreach effort designed to provide free essential items to those in need. What began as a single act of service quickly grew into an annual event as local charitable organizations combined their resources and efforts to make each year bigger and more impactful than the last.
This year’s event featured a collaborative partnership between the J. Dobbins Community Closet, Skimkes Youth Empowerment and Outreach, and J. Dobbins Council #9.
Community members were provided with a wide variety of free household necessities, including pots and pans, bedding, baby items, cleaning supplies, clothing, coats, and other essential goods. Throughout the day, residents browsed tables filled with donated items while volunteers worked tirelessly to assist families and individuals.
While many attendees came to receive much-needed supplies, organizers said the true beauty of the event was the spirit of collaboration among locally founded and operated charitable organizations. Their partnership demonstrates the importance of working together to strengthen and sustain rural communities such as Clarksdale.
Among those participating were Janet Taylor, Chief Counselor of J. Dobbins Council #9, and Louis Pike, Ambassador for the organization. Alongside fellow members and volunteers, they spent the day serving residents and sharing fellowship.
“A part of our shared values is to give back to the community as much as we can,” said members of J. Dobbins Council #9.
The event also highlighted the diverse group of volunteers who dedicated their time to helping others. Business owners, educators, veterans, church members, and community leaders joined forces in a powerful demonstration of service and unity.
“This is a reminder that serving one another is at the heart of maintaining a strong and stable community,” organizers said.
Skimkes Youth Empowerment and Outreach, an extension of Skimkes Smoking and Grilling in Clarksdale, has become a driving force behind many local outreach efforts. What began as a back-to-school supply drive to give back to the community that supported the business has evolved into a year-round organization focused on outreach, service, and mentorship for people of all ages. Partnerships like the Community Closet remain central to its mission.
The group’s commitment to service extends beyond Clarksdale. Throughout the year, the collective hosts charitable events across Clarksdale, Cleveland, and Tunica, reaching hundreds of families and individuals throughout the Mississippi Delta.
Upcoming events include a Back-to-School Supply Drive on July 18 at the Expo Center and a Veterans Day Luncheon on November 7, with additional community initiatives planned throughout the year.
For information on upcoming events and community outreach opportunities, visit Skimkes Eckles on Facebook.
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