07/ 26/ 2005
by Lena Basha
Keeping up with the big boxes when it comes to community service can seem like a daunting task. Their budgets are a little bigger. But there are ways you can make your mark on the community in ways your big-box competitor — whose headquarters is several states away — just can't pull off.
Sell local products
Jill and Greg Berkin, owners of the Gardeners' Gallery, an online consignment business, help local artists sell their works to the world. After moving to Danville, Ky., from their native New York, the Berkins got to know their new town by going to different fairs and shows. "We were taken aback by the fact that there was so much talent in the art world here. But coming from New York, the pricing was nothing we were accustomed to," says Jill. Today, it's a win-win situation for both the Berkins and Danville's artists: The Berkins charge a small listing fee, and the artists receive the rest.
Play host
If you're ever in Gallatin, Tenn., on a Wednesday night and looking for a place to eat, don’t bother with Larriviere’s on the Square. This family-owned restaurant closes to the general public each Wednesday night so a local church youth group can meet there.
Stay late
The first Thursday of each month along historic South Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas, shops, restaurants and galleries stay open late, offering special events and activities to attract visitors to this revitalized neighborhood.
