Christmas in July event in Manchester for Camp Courageous

The largest year-round fundraiser for a Monticello nonprofit camp that serves individuals with disabilities has started its “Christmas in July” event this month in Manchester.

This festive Camp Courageous event, which continues for the rest of the month, will showcase an array of holiday decorations, lights, trees, clothing and other items, according to a news release. Volunteers will be working on displays for the “Christmas in July” event, as well as other promotions throughout the year.

One of the hallmarks of the year-round “Manchester Garage Sale” is the “engaging promotions that capture the spirit of giving.” Sale volunteers came up with the Christmas event in the summer.

Camp Courageous’ year-round garage sale, which is a volunteer-run initiative, not only provides financial assistance to the nonprofit but also offers donors an “opportunity to contribute to a cause that touches the lives of countless individuals,” according to news release.

The garage sale started out as a typical sale out of an actual garage by supporters to raise funds for the camp, officials said. The supporters made it an annual fundraiser and for many years it moved to various locations from garages to buildings. The sale was initially open for a few days, but volunteers eventually kept it open for months at a time.

Today, the year-round sale is in a building that has thousands of square feet of warehouse space, according to the news release.

“What makes the Manchester Garage Sale truly extraordinary is the collective effort of the over 100 volunteers who pour their heart and soul into making it a resounding success,” officials said. “These dedicated individuals selflessly contribute their time, expertise, and energy to sort, organize, and display the donations, ensuring that every item sold supports the programs and services of Camp Courageous.”

Camp Courageous is a year-round recreational, respite, and travel opportunities for individuals of all ages with disabilities. The funds raised through the Manchester Garage Sale go directly toward enhancing the camp experience, expanding facilities, and providing financial assistance to campers in need.

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Those interested in contributing to this cause, the Manchester Garage Sale will accept donations of new to gently used items. Officials said every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a lasting impact. Items can be dropped off at the sale located at 1121 E. Main St. in Manchester, during store hours.

The sale is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Some of the items accepted include: DVDs, CDs, players; books; clothing; shoes; household items; holiday/seasonal items; furniture; toys; games, puzzles, crafts; bicycles; jewelry; and bed frames.

Items not accepted include: nonworking electronic items; broken furniture; printers or computer items; mattresses or box springs; appliances; light fixtures; and exercise equipment.

Comments: (319) 398-8318; trish.mehaffey@thegazette.com