Woodland Heights Makers’ Day makes a difference – helps offset costs of community playground equipment

The second annual Woodland Heights Makers’ Day, an arts and crafts festival showcasing handmade goods from local artists and artisans, took place on Saturday, November 23. More than 500 people attended the event, which raised $2,776 to help offset the cost of new playground equipment at PHSSA used by students and children in our neighborhood. 

Nearly 30 vendors set up tables at Patrick Henry School of Science and Arts (PHSSA) showcasing a variety of goods, including crocheted and woven accessories, acrylic paintings, handmade cards, vintage trays with resin epoxy over paper, science kits for children, clay and glass bead jewelry and bottle stoppers, stained glass, painted clocks, tea cozies, encaustic and photograph paintings, pottery, felted wool items, linoleum block prints, locally made tempeh, coasters, magnets, soy candles, lotions and bath goods, and ornaments. Students from PHSSA also participated in the event, bringing homemade cookies, cake pops, Christmas ornaments, necklaces, lip gloss, and home decorations. A children’s craft table and face painting were available, and the Parent Teacher Association offered hot chocolate and popcorn on the crisp fall morning.

Neighbors organizing Makers’ Day included Vaughn Garland, Kathy Graham, Tom Hammond, Julie Hill, Dawn Rosenberg, and Wayne Swatlowski. These volunteers worked closely with PHSSA staff and vendors to plan event logistics, sponsorships, advertising, fundraising, and secure volunteers. Community sponsors included H.F.Bulifant & Sons, Inc., All Good Automotive II, Fralin Art & Frame, Intergalactic Tacos, 43rd Street Gallery and Dogeared Development. Thanks to the generosity of our vendors, sponsors and those who made cash donations to benefit PHSSA. One hundred percent of vendor registration fees supported the fundraising effort, and Woodland Heights Civic Association members approved matching the registration fees to double the funds raised by vendors. To become involved in next year’s event, please email info@woodlandheightsrva.org.