This weekend, the She Has A Name (SHAN) nonprofit is hosting its annual holiday craft fair in Grand Junction, offering more than just holiday shopping—it’s a chance to make a tangible impact on the lives of young girls in Kenya who have survived sex trafficking.

Supporting a Vital Cause

Founded a decade ago by a Grand Junction woman inspired by a visit to Kenya, SHAN focuses on providing comprehensive support for victims of sex trafficking. The organization offers safe housing, education, mentorship, and medical care to the girls under its care. Currently, SHAN supports nine young women in Kenya, helping them rebuild their lives and achieve independence.

Zach King, SHAN’s Executive Director, highlighted the global connection this craft fair provides:
“It gives people who don’t have an opportunity to travel to Kenya, a way to help. It is so tangible.”

Linda Turner, a long-time advocate, underscored the dual benefit of participating:
“You are not just buying a gift for someone, you’re also buying a gift for the girls in Kenya. Just a small gift may mean meals for a week.”

Crafting Community Change

The holiday fair showcases a variety of crafts, with vendors not only paying a booth fee but also having the option to donate a portion of their profits to SHAN. Many vendors view this as an opportunity to amplify the reach of their contributions.

• Deana Guzman, one of the vendors, explained:
  “If you can give back, it’s just giving back even more.”
• Susie Cupp, another participant, emphasized the emotional connection:
  “These girls just need a nudge. They just need to be loved like everybody else.”

Impact That Lasts

Fundraising efforts have become a community-driven mission, spearheaded by the organization’s local supporters and team members working directly in Kenya. SHAN’s hands-on approach ensures that the funds raised at events like the craft fair directly benefit the girls’ education, housing, and future opportunities.

King described the rewarding nature of their work:
“When we know we can help, when we know their lives get better, it’s very rewarding to help.”

Event Details

The She Has A Name holiday craft fair takes place at the Heart of Grand Junction on North 4th Street and runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

For those interested in learning more about SHAN or exploring other ways to get involved, visit their website for additional information.