Junior League's Holiday Mart Benefits Women, Children & Small Businesses

DENVER (CBS4) - Now that the temperatures are feeling more fall-like, one Denver organization wants to kick off the holiday season with a tradition three decades in the making.

Laura Perry, President of the Board of Directors for the Junior League of Denver recently stopped by CBS4 studios to talk about the 37th annual Mile High Holiday Mart.

"The Junior League of Denver's mission is to improve civic leaders in the community," Perry said. "Essentially our community focus is improving the literacy rate in the community for children ages birth through the third grade."

LINK: jld.org

Perry said so far $2,500 has been distributed from the Junior League.

"The proceeds from the Holiday Mart certainly support the development of women and also small businesses as well," Perry said.

The Holiday Mart will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Gates Field House on the University of Denver campus.

There will be a special VIP shopping event from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday. Tickets cost $40 and are available online at jld.org. A Kendra Scott popup will be set up for VIP shopping only and food will also be provided. Volunteers will be on hand to take purchases to everyone's vehicles.

"We have a plethora of items -- everything you can imagine -- from jewelry, home décor, food, decorations for the holidays, and a lot of other fantastic gifts for everyone you can imagine on your list," Perry said.

If you don't want to be a VIP shopper, tickets are $10 for adults and children 12 and under get in for free. They can be purchased in advance at jld.org or at the door. Parking is $7 but a light rail station is close and another option.