Local designer uses clothing line to inspire, help residents

Although the fashion world can have a reputation of being materialistic and highly exclusive, Troy Garza sought to take things in the other direction when he started his CLEAN clothing line in 2010.

"CLEAN is more than a brand," he said. "It's about change and empowerment. It's about making the community a better place."

Along with the clothing line, Garza started up a nonprofit—the CLEAN foundation. He funds the foundation himself with money he raises selling the clothes from his line, and then uses the money to help people in the Tomball community. Garza said his organization grows every year, and he estimates he has raised $60,000 over the past six months.

Most of the people Garza helps contact him personally or stop by his shop. However, he has taken more proactive approaches in the past. His philosophy is that he can help everyone in some way, and even minor displays of generosity can have a big impact.

"Sometimes I just go to lower income neighborhoods and knock on people's doors," he said. "I might not be able to help with everything, but there are little things like food or light or water bills that I can help with."

The CLEAN foundation offers financial help to a variety of assistance programs. Garza has helped impoverished people afford Thanksgiving dinners, given clothes and school supplies to low income families and checked people into rehab centers who could not afford the treatment.

The point of CLEAN has never been making money or achieving notoriety in the fashion world, Garza said. The aspect of his brand that he is most proud of is how he has been able to connect to his audience on a personal level. In addition to helping through his nonprofit, Garza also attends speaking engagements at area schools, where he talks to students about issues like bullying and staying motivated.

"If you're going to make a change, you need to start with your own surroundings," he said. "Being able to reach out to kids is important to me, because that's where your impact will be the greatest over time."

Garza, who designs all the clothes himself, said the word CLEAN has connections to both his clothing line and the aim of his nonprofit. Whether he is trying to help people by inspiring them with his designs, get through a battle with drug addiction or just lend an ear to help someone turn their life around, CLEAN is at the center of it all.

"CLEAN is a brand that lives inside people," he said. "I've met many people who associate their lives with the brand I created. I'm confident that CLEAN, as a way of life, will stand the test of time."

Commitment, Determination, Motivation

In addition to running the CLEAN Foundation, Troy Garza works with the nonprofit, CDM promotions. CDM stands for Commitment, Determination, Motivation and serves as a gym and youth center for troubled youth.

CDM organizers host mixed martial arts tournaments featuring local fighters and uses money raised through ticket sales to fund the youth center. Garza is involved with organizing events. CLEAN is the official clothing sponsor for a team.

"Their mission when it comes to bettering the community is similar to mine," Garza said. "They provide a positive place for these kids who would otherwise have nowhere else to go."

CDM is hosting its annual Night of Champions event 7 p.m. Nov. 3 at the Texas Tornados Training Facility in Cypress. Tickets are $25. 832-887-9460

CLEAN by Troy Garza, 120 W. Main St., Tombal, 281-357-8448