SHOP THE WORLD -ALL IN ONE PLACE
NOVEMBER 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM TO 1:00 PM | WESLEY HALL
Tired of the Christmas shopping rush?
Looking for a way to shop with PURPOSE?
We've got a solution.
Check out the Alternative Gift Fair 2026, a long running annual event, coming up this year on November 2nd.
More than a dozen vendors representing non-profit groups, fair trade organizations and various ministries provide thousands of items for you to browse and buy.
Every single gift purchased delivers a double dose of good by supporting a mission and/or ministry and bringing joy to the person you are gifting.
Hope to see you here on November 1st and be sure and help spread the word.
Interested in being a vendor. Just send us an email at
communications@1stchurch.org .
SCROLL DOWN FOR THE VENDOR LIST
2025 PARTICIPATING VENDORS
Below you will find the organizations selling items at this year's Alternative Gift Fair.
Remember, your purchases support organizations that are helping others.
List of Services
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HELP REFUGEES IN OUR COMMUNITYList Item 1
Bridge Refugee Services has been welcoming people in East Tennessee since 1982. The organization's mission is to provide opportunities for refugees to rebuild their lives after suffering persecution so that they may become productive, contributing members of the community.
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HELP MAKE MENTAL HEALTH CARE AFFORDABLEList Item 2
The idea for Compassion Counseling came from members of 1st UMC more than a decade ago. Now located inside 1st UMC @ Sycamore Tree, this organization works to make mental health counseling and education affordable for all. Buying items from CC will go directly to this non-profit organization to continue and expand its services.
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HELP PEOPLE DEALING WITH DEMENTIAList Item 3
The Daybreak Respite program exists for Christian disciples to serve families tasked with continual care for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's or other form of dementia.
Daybreak serves as a place providing social, physical, and intellectual stimulation for participants while providing a respite and support for caregivers and those who need to work.
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GIVE A CHILD A HOMEList Item 4
Family Promise of Blount County works with local families experiencing homelessness. Their mission is to have a community where every child has a home!!
During the Alternative Gift Fair you will have a chance to support Family Promise by purchasing candles along with ornaments decorated by the children in the program.
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GIVE INDEPENDENCE
The GATE will be offering handmade items and Christmas ornaments made by the clients.
All of the money donated during Christmas season sales will be utilized towards program enrichment for the 50+ adults with disabilities currently served by The GATE's day program.
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GIVE ASSISTANCE TO NEIGHBORS IN CRISIS
Good Neighbors offers help to neighbors in need who are facing eviction or utility disconnection.
During the AGF you will be able to purchase the Good Neighbors blend coffee (already wrapped for gifting). Through your generosity, Good Neighbors can fulfill its mission to provide assistance, offer hope and empower our neighbors through one on one coaching and referral.
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GIVE TO HELP ANIMALS
The mission and purpose of the Humane Society of East Tennessee is to promote the welfare of animals, to strengthen the human-animal bond and to further the cause of responsible animal adoption and ownership through education and public awareness.
The Society actively promotes kindness, the elimination of cruelty to and neglect of all animals, and the lifelong commitment of people to their pets.
During this year's Alternative Gift Fair, the Humane Society will bring in cats for adoption.
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SUPPORT AFGHAN FAMILIES
Recently arrived from Afghanistan, Khatya creates accessories from up-cycled silk ties and costume jewelry. No two items are alike, they are delightfully creative and perfect for an outing to sport your own unique style!
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GIVE LIFE CHANGING OPPORTUNITIES
The Maryville Lions Club will be here selling a variety of items including:
- Small pottery items
- Christmas Crafts
- Baskets
- Christmas Creches
- Jewelry
- Pecans
All proceeds assist the group in their endeavors as part of an international service organization.
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GIVE TO PALESTINIAN FARMERS
This non-profit social enterprise assists Holy Land olive farmers by distributing Palestinian extra virgin, organic, fair-trade olive oil in Tennessee and around the Southeastern U.S.
The oil is flavorful, delicious, and health enhancing, and not only elevates the taste of any food that you prepare, but also makes a perfect gift during the holiday season.
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GIVE TO HELP FAIR TRADE
Tradewinds buys fair trade products from around the world to sell. Proceeds go back into the store to help buy more products.
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GIVE A FREE MEAL
1st United Methodist Church (Thursday) and New Providence Presbyterian Church (Tuesday) offer the community a weekly opportunity to break bread together. Dozens of faithful volunteers serve the community (preparing, serving, and cleaning up) by offering a free meal to anyone who comes to the Welcome Table. This ministry is a true labor of love!!
The Welcome Table will have an assortment of jams and jellies for sale at the Alternative Gift Fair. Come early for the best selection.
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GIVE A BOOST TO CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES
Linda Richards will be selling a number of handmade items with all proceeds benefitting the 1st Kids Ministries.
