Planting Hope serves communities in Nicaragua and Vermont by enhancing educational opportunities, supporting grassroots initiatives and fostering cultural exchanges in Nicaragua and Vermont for the past 18 years.  Planting Hope took over the Solidarity Craft Fair in 2004 as a fund-raiser for our projects in Nicaragua. When we began, we used the space at the Unitarian Church of Montpelier and squeezed in 20 local and a few international crafts people who used the fair as a way to earn their living during the December holidays.  We quickly realized that it was so much more than a fund-raiser, but a lovely community event where people are able to buy hand-made gifts and support other Vermonters as well as international projects in the process. We had such a demand from local vendors who needed an affordable place to vend during the holiday season, that in 2013 we expanded into our second venue at the Bethany Church to accommodate 20+ additional craftspeople.  The fair also includes a luncheon and large silent auction.  

Each year, a dedicated following of customers seek out the fair for great local gifts.  Proceeds from our luncheon, table rental fees and two large silent auction support Planting Hope’s work in Nicaragua.  Youth groups use the fair to fund-raise for their causes, including Planting Hope youth who are raising money to do service work with us in Nicaragua.