Shop Local Campaign
The Evart Shop Local Campaign started in the Spring of 2009 as a response to the need to educate consumers in the Evart area about all the many items and services Evart area businesses provide and as a means to promote those businesses. The main goal of the Campaign is to get people into businesses to actually see what those businesses offer before the people decide to run off to a larger city with a box store that is a half-hour away. When looked at closely, Evart businesses really have a lot to offer! Always remember, unlike the box stores, if something is not in stock at a local business, often times what you need can be ordered.
Current Shop Local Campaign Programs include the Annual Shop Local Fall Festival Streetfair and “Evart Bucks” a local currency. The Streetfair is held in Sept./Oct. (scheduled for Saturday, September 17, 2011 11am-3pm see the event on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=228146240566699) right on Main Street and features a business showcase, live entertainment, carnival games, bounce houses, and more! Evart Bucks are worth a dollar and can be spent at any participating business (look for “Accept Evart Bucks” sign). Evart Bucks can be purchased by organizations and individuals for awards, gifts, etc. You can also win Evart Bucks by entering monthly Shop Local drawings (Evart Shop Local Drawing Canister Locations) or by attending community events like the Musicale or Christmas in a Small Town.
The August Shop Local Drawing Winner ($25 Evart Bucks) was Roy Neace of Ionia! Roy often drives through Evart for work and put his entry in at Mancino’s. Roy’s entry was drawn from 192 total entries. Congratulations! The next chance to win Evart Bucks is at the Shop Local Streetfair on Saturday, September 17, 2011 – drawings at 12pm, 1pm, & 2pm. We will also have a winner for our September monthly drawing.
Top Ten Reasons to Shop Local
10. Local stores are more likely to carry locally produced foods and wares which supports local agriculture and innovation.
9. Local business owners contribute to more local fundraising and 501(c)3’s.
8. Local businesses provide a majority of jobs.
7. Local businesses support other local businesses.
6. The business community becomes reflective of this community’s unique culture.
5. The sales taxes I pay support this community and county: fixing my roads, maintaining my recreational facilities, police & fire protection, etc.
4. Competition and diversity result in fair prices and more choices.
3. Shopping local reduces my carbon footprint, let alone wear and tear on my vehicle and saving me time!
2. Local business owners invest in the community and have a vested interest in the future of this community.
AND LASTLY…
1. My hometown is more important than a cheap______________(fill in the blank)!
