Norwalk Business To Host Blast-From-The-Past Charity Bash

NORWALK, CT – It’s time to pull out your bell bottoms and party like it’s 1968 as Jerry’s Artarama rings in its 50th anniversary by hosting an art supply drive for the Brien McMahon and Norwalk High School Art Departments from April 28 to May 6.

The fundraiser’s 1968 themed kick-off party Saturday is free and open to the public, according to a release. Guests will enjoy refreshments, music, giveaways and face painting. Monetary and material donations will be accepted, 100 percent of which goes to the high school art departments.

The event comes at a time when schools across the country face difficult budget decisions, shifting financial responsibility onto teachers, students and families. The need for constructive outlets for student expression, stress relief and creative thinking is increasingly necessary, despite its diminishing presence in public education.

The staff at Jerry’s want to contribute to positive change, knowing firsthand that the Norwalk community’s support makes all the difference.

In an era when some retailers are closing their doors, Jerry’s 50th anniversary is no small feat. The store says they have their customers to thank for their longevity.

“We become friends with so many of our customers. It means a lot to us that people choose to shop here,” Store Manager Joanne Fox said in a release.

When asked why customers keep coming back, Fox said the store has "a staff of passionate artists who
can relate to the experience of people who come to our store. We go the extra mile to answer questions, do the research, offer demos, think through projects, or whatever else it takes to make sure a customer is taken care of.”

This seemingly simple philosophy of friendly service has been a hallmark of Jerry’s Artarama since the first store opened in 1968.

Jerry Goldstein, the late Founder, was influenced by the personal care and support he received from his teachers early in life and ensured these key principles shaped the culture of his company. According to staff, longtime shoppers are often surprised the family business now has 19 locations across the country.

Most of these locations are also hosting similar fundraisers, meaning thousands of students and their teachers across the country will receive much-needed support.

The legacy of giving back doesn’t stop with this event. Among other things, Jerry’s in Norwalk provides support and sponsorship to Teen Visions, a High School Art Show held at the Silvermine Art Center on May 6, featuring artwork from local schools.

The week of festivities and donations April 28 to May 6 also features the largest sale Jerry’s has put on to date. Over 3,000 items are marked down, many 50 percent off to celebrate 50 years in business.

The sale also features a groovy 68 percent off custom framing, a hefty discount customers won’t likely see again. The store opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday, with activities starting around 11 a.m. Jerry’s Artarama is located at 360 Main Avenue on the bottom level.

For more information about donating, the staff at Jerry’s can be reached at (203) 846-2279.

To sign up for Norwalk breaking news alerts and more, click here.

Photo credit: Shutterstock