The 8th Annual
Alternative Gift Fair

By Stephanie Hayes-Mussoni

Stephanie, Director of the Cope Environmental Center

Are you looking for a wonderful way to give meaningful gifts to all those on your holiday shopping list?  The answer is to attend the Eighth Annual Wayne County Alternative Gift Fair.  The gift fair is an event that is full of “holiday spirit.”  There are treats, music, massages, and a one-stop shopping venue for everyone on your list!

The Alternative Gift Fair began when a group of local women heard of the concept presented by a national organization – The New Dream.  This organization is based on changing our perception of what it is to realize “The American Dream” focusing more on experiences and sustainable lifestyles instead of accumulating “stuff.”  The idea of the Alternative Gift Fair came together to help promote meaningful gifts that not only give to the recipient, but also give back to the community.

This  is a one day event that brings together 18 non–profits.  A shopper attends the fair and selects a variety of “gifts” for people on their lists that match their interests in the community.  Maybe you have someone who loves to hike, you can “purchase” the care of one mile of hiking trails at Cope Environmental Center in their name.  Or for the dog lover a gift of food and shelter for dogs at HELP the Animals.  Each of the 18 organizations has 3 “gifts” at three different donation levels.  The shopper uses one shopping list to purchase as many gifts from as many of the organizations as the shopper chooses.

Gift Fair Will Be At Morrison Reeves Library Again This Year

Then the shopping list is taken to the cashier and one payment is made for all your gifts via cash, check or charge.  The shopper chooses the mode of wrapping and enjoys goodies, music and even a chair massage while awaiting the finished gifts to be presented to friends, family, co-workers, and anyone else on the shopping list!    Partners such as Wayne County Foundation, Reid Hospital & Health Care Services and Summersault are making your dollar stretch by providing matching gifts and/or general support for the event.

As a bonus, the Wayne County Foundation will also be giving $10 “Bonus Bucks” to the first 100 people through the checkout line who are: a new shopper, a child, or someone who donates to five or more organizations.  This coupon can be used to “purchase” an additional donation in honor of someone!  Thanks to WCF for supporting the Fair for so many years. The Alternative Gift Fair is a great way to get into the true holiday season, purchase meaningful gifts, and give back to the community!  Join us on December 3 from 12:00 – 3:00 at Morrison Reeves Library in the Bard Room for all the fun and festivities. More information and a list of participating agencies can be found on the AGF website at: www.MyAlternativeGiftFair.org.