By Jordan Beach
Since 2011, the Jasper-based Holiday Market has been raising money for local, worthy causes through an event that helps people get their shopping done for the holidays, and now they’re contributing to Reinhardt University’s Pickens Scholars program.
(Left to right): Peige Payne, Amberle Godfrey (President and CEO of Pickens County Chamber), Dale Morrissey (RU Director of Development & External Relations), Michelle Roberson, Kay Lawrence (Renasant Bank).
Renamed “Holiday Market & Expo” in 2013, the annual event has been hosted during the holiday season for the past seven years and continues to grow by raising more money and adding more vendors. Holiday Market is an arts, crafts and gifts event held annually at Chattahoochee Technical College in Jasper, Ga. that donates 100% of its proceeds to non-profit and charity organizations.
Michelle Roberson, parish administrator at Church of the Holy Family, is on the board of directors at Holiday Market and hopes that after this initial donation of $500 to Pickens Scholars, the non-profit organization can continue to stay connected to Reinhardt University.
“Every college student needs help, as expenses for today’s college students are endless,” said Roberson. “We look at our award as an investment for our community and the future. Holiday Market never knows when a student may become a member of our team.”
The goal of Holiday Market is to promote the community through arts and crafts, tourism and charity. The yearly event showcases local artisans and crafts people, along with bringing in vendors, shoppers and volunteers from many places throughout the southeast. Additional information can be found at holidaymarketinjasper.com.
Reinhardt University is grateful for the donation from Holiday Market and Expo that will aid Pickens County residents to further their education.
