Warren, PA — The HEROES nonprofit support group hosted its annual holiday craft fair at the Warren County YMCA this weekend, drawing community members and local vendors to its only fundraiser of the year.
HEROES was founded by Mandie Englert, who created the group while seeking support for her son, who has autism. The organization now works to ensure local events include sensory-friendly spaces for children with special needs, are neurodivergent, or are on the autism spectrum.
Englert said the turnout shows how strongly the community stands behind the group’s mission.
“It’s heartwarming to me knowing that the community of Warren will come in to support HEROES as well as all of our local vendors. Proceeds from this craft show will go to HEROES, and it funds all of our sensory events throughout the year,” she said.
Her son, Nolan Foatt, who helped inspire the creation of HEROES, said he was excited to see the community come together.
“I think it’s cool. I am happy that people came out and of course all the vendors. It’s pretty cool,” he added.
Vendors at the craft fair shared similar enthusiasm. Permanent jeweler Diana Mangusing said supporting the cause makes the event especially meaningful.
“I really enjoy doing this and making people happy, and it’s always good to help other people raise money for things that they need.”
Proceeds from the craft fair will fund HEROES’ sensory-friendly programs throughout the coming year.
For more information on HEROES and their upcoming events, visit here.