• What is the Alternative Giving Market?

The Alternative Giving Market is a community event where you can “shop” for meaningful gifts that support local and global causes. Instead of buying traditional presents, you make donations in honor of friends and family — giving gifts that truly make a difference

• What kinds of gifts can I “buy”?

Examples include providing a week of pet food for a struggling family, planting fruit trees for a village overseas, supplying vaccines for children, or supporting women’s shelters here in Iowa.

• Is this a craft show?

Not exactly — though you’ll find some wonderful handcrafted treasures! Many Hands Thrift Store offers handcrafted items that help fund international development projects, and Touch of Grace provides olive wood carvings from the Holy Land, supporting artisans and their communities there.

• How does it work?

Each booth represents a nonprofit organization or mission project. You can make a donation in someone’s honor and receive a holiday card to give them — showing how their gift made an impact.

• Will it be festive?

Absolutely! The market will be filled with holiday cheer — twinkling decorations, the cozy aroma of hot mulled cider, and the joyful sounds of Christmas classics played by Mary Schmelzer, a talented local pianist. It’s the perfect place to catch the spirit of the season while giving gifts that give.

• Where do I park?

There is plenty of parking at St Paul Presbyterian's lot.

• Can kids participate?

Yes! Many families use this event to teach their children about generosity and global citizenship. Kids love helping pick out causes that matter to them.