Nov 22, 2009

For the holidays, make the giving keep on givingBy Kim KimzeyGoUpstate.com

Deluged by news of so many in need, it can be hard to know how to help. There are numerous causes and nonprofits to support.

How about gifts that benefit the recipient and help others, too?

The Advent Shoppe has donated thousands of dollars to area programs since it opened about two years ago, Bill Hunter said. Hunter manages the shop staffed by volunteers and housed in Satterlee Hall at Episcopal Church of the Advent, 161 Advent St.

The shop’s inventory isn’t limited to religious items. There are books, including some by local authors, and a broad assortment of gift items. Many items are handmade, and shoppers can read about the individuals who created the pieces.

Hunter has spent most his life in the retail and importing business. He says he looks for the unique, different and interesting when selecting items for the gift shop. On a recent visit, there were sculptures and jewelry from Africa, handcrafted pens from Tennessee, works by area artisans, garden gear, cards, ornaments, educational games for kids and more.

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