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Celebrate the holiday season in Kennett with our 2018 Fig Kennett Holiday Gifting & Giving Guide.
Below, explore our curated collection of diverse local gifts from Kennett and discover transformative nonprofits you can support in the community.
This season, shop local and give back to make our wonderful community event stronger.
Enjoy!
1) Gifting Guide
Explore the magic of Kennett and shop local this holiday season. Have your celebration shimmer and shine with meaningful gifts perfect for everyone on your list.
Ashley Austin Boutique
Gifting Ideas: A variety of local and eclectic jewelry, footwear, fashion accessories including bags, and an assortment of gifting items.
Explore: Website
Bavarian Motorsport
At Bavarian Motorsport, it is their goal to go above and beyond your experience at the dealership and offer specialized opportunities regarding car ownership and car maintenance. This local family owned business strives to offer an experience like no other.
Gifting Ideas: A variety of vehicles from BMW, Porsche, Merchedes-Benz, and other European models.
Explore: Website
Denney Electric
A lighting showroom featuring statement pieces, indoor and outdoor fixtures, and on-trend lighting design to make every space in your home feel cozy this season.
Gifting Ideas: Lamps and ballasts, lighting controls and timers, hardware, lighting fixtures, ceiling fans, and more.
Explore: Website
Carol Lesher Collection. Local painter Carol Lesher has created several exclusive products inspired by Longwood Gardens, including these fresh takes on the Chimes Tower, Conservatory, and Meadow Garden.
Longwood Gardens GardenShop
In addition to tickets and memberships to the gorgeous 400 acres of gardens, Longwood Gardens offers a variety of items perfect for gifting from their GardenShop.
Gifting Ideas: Gifts inspired by their main fountain garden, other books on florals, gardens, and nature, signature gifts including perfume, CDs and DVDs of a personal narrated Longwood Gardens tour, calendars, artwork, garden memberships, and more.
Explore: Website
Wine scented candles that smell like signature Paradocx Wines.
Paradocx Winery
Award winning Paradocx wine is the perfect gift for the wine lover on your list. Offering an authentic taste of Chester County in every bottle, you can uncork, relax, and unwind among friends and family this holiday season.
Gifting Ideas: Wine club membership, PDXperience, gift certificates, holiday wine tasting experience, and, of course, an assortment of award-winning wine.
Explore: Website
Collections of Vintage Denim with fits for every woman.
Textile
Textile strives to inspire women and introduce them to their most confident selves through providing fresh, unique designs to the community. They believe in making sure women, all women, have something to express themselves and feel amazing wearing.
Gifting Ideas: A mix of vintage and contemporary fashion including jackets, jeans, hats, shirts, and more.
Follow: Instagram
Explore: Website
Dylan Stadium Pullover.
Trail Creek Outfitters
Outfitting your free time since 1983, Trail Creek Outfitters brings you the best brands the outdoor industry has to offer, reminding you to get outside, reconnect, and never stop adventuring. Find The North Face, Patagonia, Prana, Kuhl, Ugg, and many more. Shop knowing that 1% of every sale goes back to a local nonprofit.
Gifting Ideas: Flannels, fleece, footwear, outdoor gear including hats, satchels, games, toys, repellent, sunglasses, camping gear, sleeping bags, and more.
Explore: Website
Waywood Beverage
Waywood Beverage is the premiere destination for all your favorite craft beer and national brands. Enjoy mix and match six packs, plus weekly deliveries of new and unique beers every Wednesday. Stuff the stocking of your favorite beer lover with a crowler, growler, festive brews, and of course, a Waywood Beverage gift card.
Gifting Ideas: Crowlers, growlers, brews, gift cards, a variety of mix and match six packs, and more.
Explore: Website
Hand Stamped State Necklace by Meghann Elyse.
worKS
worKS Kennett Square is a curated group of high end purveyors of artisan, designer, handcrafted, vintage and one-of-a-kind goods for the home, the person and the connoisseur.
Gifting Ideas: Local handmade jewelry, vintage home goods, ceramics, artisan candles, furniture, and more.
Explore: Website
Waterledge, a Unisex Botanical Fragrance by David Ferron.
David Ferron at Unionville Saddle
Gifting Ideas: New exclusive fragrance Waterledge, design apparel, and more.
Explore: Pre-order new fragrance Waterledge and discover other gift options
2) Giving Back Guide
Giving back is personal, passionate, and deliberate. Kennett has a deep generosity and a thriving creativity that makes giving back a celebration of the good work happening all around us.
Chester County Arts Association
Mission:
To be a source of inspiration, creativity, and community by connecting artists, students, patrons and the wider community to and through art.
Who They Serve:
As a nonprofit art organization, CCAA serves the entire Chester County community. Their audience ranges in age from 3 to 93, and includes beginning artists, art appreciators, and professional artists. CCAA is dedicated to nurturing creativity in everyone through high-quality arts education, inspiring art exhibitions, and building creative communities.
Stats:
- 750 – art classes, workshops, and camps offered annually
- 7,000+ – students each year that participate in CCAA art education programs
- 900 – individual art pieces featured in 50 unique art exhibits hosted annually
- 20,000 – people who experience CCAA gallery exhibits, lectures and artist talks
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Donate directly through PayPal, mail a check, by calling, or online at chestercountyarts.org. For volunteer opportunities, call 610-696-5600 or send an email to assistant@chestercountyarts.org.
Good Things Said:
“Our goal is to inspire creative thinking and creative problem-solving. We believe that everyone is an artist, and we help develop individual abilities and foster art appreciation along with a sense of artistic community.
Art is our passion, and we encourage everyone to experience its transformative power!” — Wendy Kershner, Executive Director at CCAA
Family Promise Of Southern Chester County
Mission:
To help families with children experiencing homelessness achieve sustainable housing and stability.
Who They Serve:
Family Promise of Southern Chester County is a community initiative that offers a unique solution to the growing problem of family homelessness in southern Chester County. Family Promise, in partnership with local organizations and congregations, provides families struggling with homelessness crucial basic necessities, such as meals and shelter, in addition to a myriad of social services to achieve sustainable, long-term economic stability, and lasting independence.
Stats:
- 45 – families that Family Promise of Southern Chester County provided emergency shelter for since opening in 2015
- 1 – Family Promise of Southern Chester County is the only family shelter in southern Chester County that keeps families together while they search for sustainable housing.
- ⅓ – cost per day for the shelter is is approximately 1/3 the average cost of traditional shelters
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Give by check or visit online to donate at familypromisescc.org. For more information, contact Susan M. Minarchi, Executive Director, at 610-444-0400 or sminarchi@familypromisescc.org. For volunteering, visit the “How You Can Help” page on the website.
Good Things Said:
“Family Promise felt just like home! Volunteers were waiting for my daughter and me with open arms.” – Mother who was supported by Family Promise
Friends Home
Mission:
This vibrant, senior community providing for the needs of older men and women with Independent Living, Personal Care, and Skilled Nursing. Residents enjoy a homey, comfortable atmosphere with a Quaker mission.Rather than having residents adapt to Friends Home, we work to adapt our environment to their individual interests and needs. In addition, residents actively participate in various intergenerational programs through the community and enjoy giving back.
Who They Serve:
The Garage Youth Center
Mission:
To empower youth to pursue their potential academically, relationally, and spiritually.
Who They Serve:
The Garage serves vulnerable middle and high school students in the Kennett Square and West Grove areas. Garage students have a variety of barriers. The Garage programs help students to navigate challenges and provide encouragement to be the best possible versions of themselves through homework help, tutoring, academic enrichment, mentoring, community service, college and career counseling and access, summer internships, life skills, job skills, and nutrition.
Stats:
- 500 – students The Garage serves
- 80% – students who are low-income.
- 89% – of Garage students increased grades in at least one core subject through The Garage’s help
- 30% – students that have parents who did not graduate high school have graduated 95% – Garage students that graduated high school
- 1,473 – hours of community service The Garage students have collectively provided
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
You can give online or via check to their address. If you would like more volunteer information, sign up at garageyouthcenter.org/volunteer.
Good Things Said:
“The Garage has helped me manage my time, to be more confident in myself, to talk to people I can really trust, but most of all it helped me know what it feels like to be an actual teenager” – Student at The Garage
Habitat For Humanity Of Chester County
Mission:
Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.
Who They Serve:
Habitat for Humanity serves low-income families of Chester County regardless of race, gender, culture, religion or familial status. Habitat is designed to help a unique group of people who are in need of adequate housing, in a position to make monthly mortgage payments, and unable to obtain conventional mortgages by other means.
Impact:
Since 1989, Habitat volunteers have provided affordable housing for 151 families in need in Coatesville, Downingtown, Phoenixville, and West Chester. A simple, decent place to live helps families by freeing them from physical and mental hardships. An affordable mortgage means they have a chance to create savings and invest in their education and health. Through shelter, Habitat empowers.
How To Give or Volunteer:
Families who partner with Habitat build their own homes alongside volunteers, pay an affordable mortgage, and are grateful for your help. Donate today online! Also, the Kennett and Caln ReStores are home improvement stores that accept donations and then resell to the community. Proceeds from the sales of these items help Habitat’s work in Chester County. Find out more at online.
Good Things Said:
“Where would be without the volunteers that have come out to help build our home, countless groups, companies and of course individuals too? You have given up one of the most precious things you can, in my opinion, and that’s your time, to help someone else. We really do appreciate all you have done in helping us build our home. I hope we convey that feeling when we were working amongst you at the site by actions and words.” – Marcus & Maryann
Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society
Mission:
KATS brings British humor to life — from the streets of Kennett Square to the Kennett High School auditorium — Their fun is free or less than the price of a movie ticket!
Who They Serve:
With over 100 members actively participating in their productions, KATS brings the community together like nothing else. The organization serves the local community and beyond.
Stats:
- 100% – of their productions are written specifically for KATS performances
- 17 – original works performed since 2001
How To Give Back:
Donate online at CallKats.org or mail your donation to Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society.
Kennett Area Community Service
Mission:
Serving People in their Time of Need. Their work is to reduce and end hunger, homelessness, and poverty. KACS strives to walk with individuals on their journey from crisis to independence.
Who They Serve:
KACS serves over 900 families—adults, children, and seniors —each year. Participant families and individuals reside in the Kennett area and the Southern Chester County Region.
What Is Offered:
Crisis intervention through the Kennett Food Cupboard and the Emergency Assistance programs, as well as resource building through the Getting Ahead, Emergency Loan and Share programs.
Stats:
Last year KACS provided case management, support services and often financial assistance to stabilize 285 households with rent or utility assistance. And they provided food assistance to 785 food insecure families in the Kennett area.
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Visit the website at kacsonline.net. to donate, learn more, and explore volunteer opportunities.
A Shared Story:
After working in the local area for decades, Pedro found himself without resources and experienced homelessness for 10 years. During the time he lived outdoors, KACS staff met Pedro and began a relationship built on trust and respect. He expressed that he wanted a home. With assistance and guidance from KACS, Pedro moved into his home. Four years later, KACS continues to provide the support and stability that allows Pedro to age in place and be a part of the community.
Kennett Flash
Mission:
To enhance the quality of life for people of all ages, achieved through arts experiences for audiences, performing artists, and students.
Who They Serve:
The Kennett Flash serves over 20,000 people who visit Kennett Square annually, and the surrounding community that calls Kennett home.
Stats:
- 10 – the amount of minutes a student has the opportunity to play at the bi-weekly open mic night. Many have gone on to be opening acts or host their own concerts at the Flash
- 2019 – the year that the free workshop series will begin for area high school students with touring musicians—to help their goal being to increase musical educational opportunities for area students.
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Donate by check, by PayPal, or visit kennettflash.org. Email director@kennettflash.org with questions regarding donations and for volunteer opportunities.
Good Things Said:
“The Kennett Flash is a true listening room where you’ll see the best national, regional, and local acts. A real treat to have such a special place right here in Kennett Square.” – Joel Plotkin
The Peacemaker Center
Mission:
To help people find peace with God, themselves, and others. The Center provides Clinical Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy, and Social Work to anyone in need of the services. Trained professional provide excellence in Clinical Care within the framework of God’s truth and guidance.
Who They Serve:
The Peacemaker Center serves couples, families, and individuals of all ages for a variety of relationship and mental health issues.
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Visit thepeacemakercenter.org and click the “Donate” button, and
Good Things Said:
“I have been able to work at my own pace through some extremely difficult issues in my life. The Peacemaker Center has helped me to get reconnected with myself, my wife, and God.” – An individual impacted by The Peacemaker Center
Stroud Water Research Center
Mission:
To advance knowledge and stewardship of freshwater systems through global research, education, and watershed restoration.
Who They Serve:
The Stroud Water Research Center impacts all who love clean water! Their scientists are researching freshwater systems around the world, their restoration team is working more locally with farmers and large landowners to mitigate impact on freshwater systems, and their education team is sharing their science with students, scouts, professionals, teachers, and citizen scientists throughout the country.
Stats:
- 3% – water on the Earth’s surface that is fresh, the remaining 97% resides in the ocean.
- 1% – fresh water that is accessible for human consumption, the remaining 99% resides in glaciers or underground.
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Visit the website at stroudcenter.org to donate and to discover volunteer opportunities.
Good Things Said:
“Many students and teachers informed me that this was one of the best field trips that they have ever been on and I have to agree. I am delighted that we are continuing this partnership of teaching and learning. I was able to observe all the great stuff that The Stroud Water Research Center is doing for the environment. Your teachers today were very well prepared and went the extra mile to meet the needs of our diverse learning community.” -M. Garvin, Assistant Principal, Avon Grove Intermediate School
Tick Tock Early Learning Center
Mission:
To provide affordable, high-quality education and child care to working families with a sliding-scale tuition assistance program. Tick Tock prepares children for success in school and beyond.
Who They Serve:
Tick Tock serves working families in Southern Chester County.
Stats:
Each and every day the team at Tick Tock is surrounded by happy children thriving in a safe and loving environment. They believe an investment in a good foundation helps builds a stronger community and workforce for the future and benefits us all.
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Visit ticktockelc.org for ways you can donate or get involved, or call 610-268-8134 to schedule a tour of the center.
Wings For Success
Mission:
To empower women in need to pursue employment and economic security through apparel, advice, and advocacy.
Who They Serve:
Women who are struggling to buy clothes appropriate for employment while balancing needs for food, rent, and childcare. Over 70% of clients come from referral partners working with women in the midst of vulnerable situations—be it escaping domestic violence, recovering from addiction, returning from active duty in the military, an unexpected layoff or disability.
Stats:
- 700 – women per year Wings of Success serves
- 77% – of total served women move towards employment or retained employment
30% – of women who were seeking appropriate attire to succeed at a newly obtained job were still employed 6 months later - 96% – of women said that Wings had increased their self-confidence
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Donate online or via mail, or you may also give through United Way, Your Cause, Corporate Matches, and Amazon Smile. Volunteer opportunities are listed in detail on the website at wingsforsuccess.org.
Good Things Said:
“The women at Wings didn’t make me feel less. They didn’t pity me. They surrounded me to lift me up.” — Terry, Wings for Success client
“It’s great to see there’s people out there willing to help you succeed in life.” – Cathy, Wings for Success client
YoungMoms
Mission:
To inspire and equip young moms to build thriving futures for themselves and their families.
Who They Serve:
YoungMoms serves pregnant and parenting moms ages 14 to 21 living in Southern Chester County, PA. Many face significant challenges including incomplete education, poverty, single parenthood, depression, and a general lack of options and opportunities.
Stats:
- 160 – pregnant and parenting teachers that were able to stay in school, pursue college education or vocational training, parent more effectively, and make healthy personal decision over the last 8 years due to YoungMoms.
- 57 – local teen moms. On average, 81% are working and/or in school or training programs.
- 100% – on the YoungMoms annual survey, 100% of participants responded that, because of YoungMoms, they have achieved new goals, are better parents because of the training and support provided, and feel part of a vital community of support.
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Donate on the website at youngmomscommunity.com or mail to YoungMoms, PO Box 376, Kennett Square, PA 19348. To learn more about this impactful program and how you can join in making a difference, youngmomscommunity.com or contact Executive Director Linda Mercner at linda.mercner@youngmomscommunity.com.
Good Things Said:
“When I wasn’t in YoungMoms I felt like my future was basically over. But YoungMoms helped me realize that even with a child and how young I am that I can achieve what I would like to do in life. It’s really helped.” – A recent young mom in the program
YMCA
Mission:
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Who They Serve:
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine serves more than 73,000 local members in Chester County, thousands of visitors through the Y’s reciprocity program, as well as brand loyalty which spans over a century.
Stats:
- $3.5 million – financial assistance provided to more than 11,915 individuals and families
- 4,041 – kids sent to a YMCA summer camp
- 1,750 – kids who were taught life-saving water safety skills
- 784 – people who received food baskets in the community for Thanksgiving
- 2,000+ – children and families provided with a brighter holiday through the Angel
How To Give Back & Volunteer:
Give back and inquire about volunteering online at ymcagbw.org, by mail to YMCA Greater Brandywine, call 610-643-9622, or contact Patti Cambell at pcambell@ymcagbw.org.
Good Things Said:
“As a working mom, the Y’s childcare has been a lifesaver. My daughter loves her classes and is learning so much … and I feel happy knowing she is well cared for. I don’t know what I would have done without their financial assistance program; it is a wonderful resource for our community.” – Chai, parent
