I joined the Junior League of Philadelphia, Inc. (JLP) in 2021, and since then, I’ve been working to streamline my quota process. Since I live about 45 minutes from Headquarters, I always try to make the most of my trips. For example, last August, the Works Committee had brunch in Ardmore. I went to brunch, had my quota in my car, and completed my Thrift Shop shift—all in the same day.
I enjoy completing quota and my Thrift Shop shift in the summer before the League year really gets into full swing. For me, this makes it easier to focus on committee work later in the year. However, if you prefer to wait until later in the League year to do your quota (March/April), you can opt to have your excess quota applied to next year’s requirement.
I wanted to share my process in case it helps someone else make the quota process more enjoyable—or at the very least, as quick as possible. So, let’s get started!
1. Gather and Document Items at Home
At home, I go through my items and create a handwritten copy of the Thrift Shop Quota Sheet before heading to the Shop.
JLP Members can access this form in Digital Cheetah by following these steps:
  • Log into Digital Cheetah from the JLP homepage.
  • Hover over “Calendars & Sign-Ups” until a drop-down menu appears.
  • Click on “JLP Quota Sign-Up.”
  • Click on “JLP Quota Sheet” in the left-hand menu.
In short, you’ll need to write down the number of items you’re bringing along with a general description of the items (e.g., tops, pants, dresses, etc.) and the number of items you’re bringing from each category. Bonus points for getting more descriptive!
My entries typically look like this:
              Tops (4)
                             2 Madewell sweaters
                             2 Athleta racerback tops
              Bottoms (3)
                             1 Gap skirt
                             2 Lululemon running shorts
Other things I do at this stage:
  • Write down the number and type of hangers I need (e.g., four skirt/pant hangers and 11 regular hangers);
  • Use this time to decide if I really want to keep or donate an item;.
  • Check for holes, rips, or stains before donating;.
  • Look through pockets or book pages to make sure I haven’t left anything inside.
2. Separate Items Before Leaving Home
Before heading to the Shop, I separate out what needs to go on a hanger and what can go into a basket. This makes everything more efficient once I arrive.
3. Make Sure I Have Quarters for the Parking Meters
I always remind myself to bring quarters for the parking meters at the Thrift Shop lot. (This has saved me from parking stress more than once!)
4. Double-Check My Headquarters Door Code
I try to remind myself of my Headquarters code before I leave. If I forget, here’s how to find it in Digital Cheetah:
  • Log into Digital Cheetah from the JLP homepage.
  • Hover over “My Membership” until a drop-down menu appears.
  • Click on “My Profile.”
  • Find your AJLI Member ID—the last four digits are your Headquarters door code.
5. Unload and Organize in the Basement
Once inside, I find a clothing rack for my items and, if necessary, make additional trips to my car. Once I’m in the basement of the Thrift Shop, I staple my handwritten list to the carbon copy form and take a picture of my list for personal documentation.
Note: I don’t use quota donations for tax purposes, so I only take a photo to ensure I receive credit for my JLP quota obligation.
6. Get Hangers and Hang Clothes
I collect the right number of hangers before hanging my clothes.
7. Collect and Prepare Tags
At this point, I:
  • Grab the correct number of tags.
  • Rip them apart along the perforation (all at once if possible).
  • Write the size and clothing type on each tag in the order that I hung the items.
This keeps things efficient and makes it easier to stay organized.
8. Tag Items
Using the tagging gun, I attach price tags to clothing.
  • I try to use clothing labels when possible, to avoid damaging the fabric.
  • If there isn’t a clothing tag, I find a discreet but secure place to attach it.
9. Optional: Check the Angel Donation Pile
If I want to tag extra items or make sure I’ve met my quota, I look through the Angel Donation Pile.
Tip: If you have extra items, you can put them in the Angel Donation Pile for another Member to use toward their quota!
10. Success! Time to Browse or Complete My Shift
Once I’m done, I:
  • Take a few minutes to look around the Shop (I almost always find something good!).
  • Complete my Thrift Shop shift (if I scheduled one).
  • Check the meter to avoid a ticket.
I hope this has been helpful in streamlining your quota process! I’d love to hear how other Members complete their quota—what are your tips and tricks?