Karen Baumann always gets to the annual Antique and Collectibles Show early.
“I’m a collector and dealer both — more of a collector,” said Baumann, of St. John, as she looked over the wares at the show Saturday at the Porter County Expo Center. “It’s more fun to buy than to sell.”
The event is a fundraiser for Mental Health America of Porter County.
Baumann likes to browse jewelry and decorating items for her home, particularly items to decorate the themed trees she has throughout the house. She also likes that the show is small, the dealers are friendly and the prices are reasonable.
“There’s always the chance for a good buy here,” she said.
About 2,000 people were expected for the two-day show, now in its 35th year. The event drew more than 60 vendors from throughout the Midwest, said Josh Volk, the association’s program director.
The show helps provide funding for the association’s many programs, he said, including Bridging the Gap, which provides medications for those in need; advocacy for adults with mental illness; and resources and referrals.
The association also offers the Open Door Social Program for adults with chronic or severe mental illness, which meets three times a week. Participants in the program made magnets and coasters, which were on sale at the antique show.
“We help improve quality of life and basic living skills,” Volk said.
Charlie Wiseman, of Otis, said she’s had a booth at the show off-and-on since it started.
“It’s a nice facility close to home, because most of the shows I do are out of the region,” she said, adding the event also generates future business. “I do get follow-ups, which is one of the pluses of doing shows, both buying and selling.”
She focuses her efforts on fine and costume jewelry and vintage clothing and accessories, traveling all over the world to find collectible items.
“I’ve been doing this 40 years, and junk just follows me home,” she said.
Abby Meeks, of Warsaw, has had a booth at the show for several years. She offers a mix of eclectic items but particularly likes selling feminine wares such as lace and jewelry.
She loves the association’s show
and feels a personal connection to the fundraiser.
“I work with mentally challenged adults, so it’s close to my heart,” she said.
Amy Lavalley is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
Learn more online
For more information about Mental Health America of Porter County, go to www.mentalhealthpc.org or find the association on Facebook.
