WESTFIELD — Gift ideas for all ages, all handmade, await shoppers on Nov. 28 when the Westfield Technical Academy’s Parent Volunteer Organization hosts its annual major fundraiser, the Holiday Craft Fair.
The event, featuring more than 80 vendors, is planned for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the lower campus, in the cafeteria and throughout the hallway to the gymnasium. Free parking is offered at the school, at 33 Smith Ave., Westfield.
“We are setting up one way traffic so shoppers will enter the main lobby door, enjoy the craft fair throughout the cafeteria, hallway, and the gym, and exit out the doors of the gymnasium,” said Cindy Sullivan, craft fair coordinator. Sullivan has also served as PVO president over the years.
Sullivan noted that all vendors are selling items that have been handmade.
“These items range from origami sculptures, scarves, blankets, Christmas decorations and soaps, to pillows, glassware, pet collars and quilted/crocheted items,” said Sullivan. “There is a huge variety of vendors so there is sure to be something for everyone.”
Sullivan said that since the craft fair is located in the school, vendors and shoppers will be required to wear masks.
“We will have hand sanitizer stations and one-way traffic has been established,” she said. “The vendor tables are spread out with plenty of room for people to browse at their leisure and find all the items they are looking for. This is a great time to get some holiday shopping done or find something for yourself.”
Highlights of the day will include baked goods from the school’s Culinary Department, as well as a limited lunch menu.
“Tiger’s Pride and the culinary staff and students are still determining the limited menu that will be for sale that day,” said Sullivan.
A raffle will also be featured during the event, with all vendors donating one item from their booths.
“We do have an ongoing raffle throughout the day, and winners must be present to win,” said Sullivan. “We sell tickets and raffle items off every hour, and all proceeds benefit the class of 2022.”
Sullivan said she is hopeful that many area residents will attend the annual event.
“The PVO raises money to help the senior class,” she said, noting proceeds include providing scholarships to seniors.
“The past four years we have given a monetary scholarship to every senior who has applied,” she said. “We also pay for the Senior Breakfast and buy every senior a gift. The PVO also celebrates our teachers and staff during Teacher Appreciation Week.”
PVO funds have also helped purchase items for the Positive Behaviors Interventions and Support Program, as well as supported the Skills USA students and cheerleaders.
Sullivan also credits the PVO’s success to several school departments.
“The PVO has been supported by their teacher liaison — chef Eric Rogers,” said Sullivan. “We also receive great support from the Construction, Culinary, Business and Graphic Arts programs. We also ask the Senior Class to help make the day of the craft fair run smoothly.”
Sullivan also acknowledged the parents who have volunteered countless hours to assist the PVO in its endeavors.
“We also have a few new parents who have joined the PVO this year and we are excited about the possibilities of our organization being successful,” said Sullivan, adding, “Dan Knapik [a freshman parent] was recently voted in as our new PVO president.”
PVO officers also include Jean Reopel, vice president; Kim Deome, treasurer, and Jaime Jacquier, secretary.
Sullivan said the PVO meets the second Tuesday of each month in the school cafeteria at 6 p.m., and upcoming dates include Nov. 9, Dec. 14, and Jan. 11. Meetings typically last 60 minutes.
“We welcome all parents and volunteers to attend meetings and join our group,” said Sullivan.
For more information on the PVO, send an inquiry to [email protected]
