Finding something special at the resource center - #lakewoodnews

The best holiday gifts come from the heart, and for the past 15 years the Developmental Disabilities Resource Center has shown this applies to both the gift maker and giver.

The resource center hosted its annual holiday market on Dec. 1, which brought together clients, local artisans and other developmental disability organizations to sell handmade gifts and foster community connection.

"Attendees look forward to seeing each other every year at this event," said April Richey, volunteer coordinator with the resource center, located at 11177 W. Eighth Ave. in Lakewood. "Everyone loves this day, especially when Santa comes by."

Throughout the day, Christmas carols played from the speakers, there was a smell of cinnamon and sugar in the air, and holiday colors sparkled as far as the eye could see.

"We've been doing the bake sale table every year," said Candy Markley, a volunteer with the Resource Center who was largely responsible for the delicious odors. "Every year is different when it comes to what our best seller is. Sometimes chocolate flies off the shelf, other years it's the cookies."

Representatives from Stepping Stone Support Center were on hand to provide information about its unique cooperative program, which supports adults with developmental disabilities in starting their own businesses and finding employment.

"We're selling products from our teams of clients at the market," said Lauren Apple, community outreach director with Stepping Stone. "We love events like this, because it gives our participants the ability to involve their business in the community, and bring their products to the people."

For many of the resource center's client's, the annual market is the first chance to sell their wares, learn about selling products and interacting with customers.

One of the entrepreneurial clients of the center is Barbara, who was selling handmade Christmas ornaments and glitter snow globes for the first time. The snow globe was particularly popular, since she included a "how to" guide with them.

"My favorite part was putting together that package," she said. "I'm having fun with everyone today."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Finding-something-special-at-the-resource-center,240428