One day last year, Heather Lindsey, who owns Creative Inspirationz Gallery, and Jay Ralston, of Dezigns on Mane, were having a conversation about how to support people in need during the holidays. Soon, the Manheim business owners came up with an idea: The Manheim Merchants CommUNITY Give Back. The idea was a simple one, but it worked so well, the organizers are holding it again this year. The fundraiser will begin on Saturday, Nov. 27.
"Businesses sell $1 tags from Small Business Saturday through Christmas," Lindsey explained. "Customers put their name on the tag or the name of a friend or family member, and the businesses display them in their windows." Last year, with just 15 businesses participating and just over a month of fundraising, and during a pandemic, the effort raised more than $1,500. The money was evenly split between the Pennsylvania SPCA, Teen Central and Manheim Brethren in Christ Church.
This year, the fundraiser will benefit the SPCA again, specifically its Santa Claws and Paws holiday drive, which benefits underserved pet owners, and will also be used to support local families in need.
Participating businesses will include The Brick House, The Sink, Reanimated Art Tattoo Studio, Creative Inspirationz, Boutique 1780, Spooky Nook Farm Llamas & Alpacas, Baron Barbers, ARTifice Ales & Mead, Designing You Boutique and Terri's Treasures. "We also expect a few more to join in as well," Lindsey said.
She noted that last year, some community members went above and beyond purchasing a tag to support the cause. Jace Landis, the son of The Sink owner Heather Landis, sold his own toys to raise money for the cause, she said.
Lindsey encourages anyone who walks into her gallery to participate in the fundraiser, emphasizing that it requires a low investment for a high return. "I tell people, 'This is a way for local businesses to support their community,'" she remarked. "We would love to have your participation."
For more information on the Manheim Merchants CommUNITY Give Back, stop in a participating business or search for "Manheim Merchants Community" on Facebook.
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