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The 16th annual Bethel Alternative Giving Fair (AGF) begins on Sunday, November 24 and runs through Sunday, December 15. AGF is a great opportunity for Bethel Lutheran Church goers to make a REAL difference. Starting from a $3 donation to a much larger gift, we can make life better for someone who could really benefit from our giving… and that gift can be given in honor of someone you love!

WHAT IS AN ALTERNATIVE GIFT? An alternative gift is humanitarian support given in honor of a friend or family member. They are gifts of peace and justice, gifts that are sustainable and that build security. These alternative gifts multiply and grow, sometimes exponentially, and offer hope and new life to people facing grave crises and needs. They challenge the trivial of our modern culture. These are authentic gifts that people really use and cherish.

A unique shopper attends an AGF, and these markets are held in the US and Canada, in schools, churches, and services clubs. AGF does not exist to make a profit, but rather it gives away three assets. 1) It gives joy to the donor (or shopper), 2) global awareness and education to the recipient of the gift, and 3) great benefit to people living in poverty or crisis. You could make AGF your “one-stop-shop” this holiday season and honor the many people in your life!

This year we have chosen relevant projects that are tended by authentic and reliable, low-overhead organizations, many of which are grassroots and “on the ground.” These organizations are vetted and AGF provides a great opportunity for Bethel goers to give easily and meaningfully!

We welcome you to stop by the EAST Bethel entrance and read through the 2024 Bethel Alternative Giving Fair Booklet and select one or more projects that are meaningful and priced right for your family and your designated receiver using the AFG Shopping List. You can also pick up inserts explaining the gift and the purpose of your giving.

Come visit the Alternative Giving Fair at Bethel running through December 15. You will be truly blessed by blessing others.

Karna Hauck & Amy Narveson
Bethel Mission & Justice Committee