Imagining Space, the project that *culture is not optional (*cino) has undertaken to renovate the former Huss School building in Three Rivers, Michigan, is a venture in creativity. Our vision is to develop the site as an intergenerational community and educational center and an semester program for college students. Already in place at the property is a community garden that donates over a thousand of pounds of fresh vegetables to families in need every year. Also, two annual “Future Festivals” have drawn the community into the space for summertime fun. Imagination and creativity are central themes which drive this endeavor’s efforts toward hope, justice and grace, and the Culture Make Sale as a fundraiser is a perfect fit for the spirit being cultivated at the Huss School property.
Handcrafted items and customized services of all sorts are available for sale online through September 30, and all proceeds will benefit the continuation of the building’s revitalization. Goods such as stationery, art, photography, clothing, poetry, ceramics, and more have been donated by supporters all over the country. In addition, the sale features many services, such as a session with a consultant on writing a college application essay, a website design, and a customized handmade quilt, love letter, embroidered icon; the list goes on. Browsers are encouraged to check back often, as new items are being added weekly. Some services are only available in the Three Rivers area, and free pick-up on select items is available.
*culture is not optional is still accepting handmade items and services as donations to the sale. Visit the donation page to find more information about contributing. The page also includes a list of ideas for what to donate.
The sale’s name comes from the book Culture Making by Andy Crouch, which challenges Christians to be actively involved in culture, creating rather than simply consuming or condemning what’s going on around them. “We’re really excited about how this sale reflects our future hopes for the Huss School property,” said *cino co-director Rob Vander Giessen-Reitsma. “We hope it will be a space of creativity, joy and collaboration, which is what the Culture Make Sale is all about.” Participate in “culture making” by purchasing homemade goods and services, or by offering to donate your own talents and gifts!
Links for more information:
- Culture Make Sale
- Imagining Space Project
- Also find the event “Culture Make Sale! (Online Event)” on Facebook
