Support for organizations that make a difference
by Madeleine Johnson, Social Editor
During this year’s holiday season, give a gift that truly keeps on giving.
On Saturday, The Community Presbyterian Church of the Sand Hills, on Sand Hills Road, will be hosting the fifth annual alternative gift market from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The shopping experience will feature several decorated booths, each representing organizations that aim to make the world a better place. Shoppers can make a donation to a foundation — such as a flat-rate contribution, funds to purchase a much-needed item, or money to be used to help a family over a specific length of time — and can then select a festive card to send to a loved one. The card will explain how the money donated in the recipient’s honor will be put to good use.
”The alternative gift market will offer a wide selection of meaningful, life-giving gifts that can change the world,” market ccoordinator Phyllis Richardson wrote in a press release.
One of the featured organizations is the Heifer Project International, which gives a pregnant working animal — such as a goat that can be milked or an ox to plough farmlands — to a family living in a developing nation. The gift comes with the understanding that once the animal gives birth, the family will give its offspring to another family in need.
Other foundations that will be represented at the gift market work to help the environment, send aid to Darfur, or assist poor families and adopted AIDS orphans.
Ten Thousand Villages will also be on hand with international craft items for sale for those who wish to purchase a more tangible gift. Supporting the work of artisans from more than 30 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, Ten Thousand Villages is a fair-trade organization that sells these works — which include purses, jewelry, fragrant soaps, handmade toys and more —to support the artists and their families.
The Community Presbyterian Church of the Sand Hills’ alternative gift market is one of more than 300 worldwide markets coordinated by Alternative Gifts International. In the 23 years since its inception, AGI has raised more than $14 million to assist the less fortunate and help the environment.
Volunteers will be available to explain each organization’s purpose, and snacks will be served.
Those who cannot attend the alternative gift market but are interested in making a donation to either an organization or AIG can receive a free catalog by calling 800-842-2243 or visiting www.altgifts.org.

