CREEDE — The Creede Ladies Aid Society rummage sale hit it out of the ballpark two weeks ago. The organization took a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic but bounced back in a big way in 2021.

“This tiny little town can do such amazing things and be so very generous,” said Ladies Aid member Janet Harrison. “This was a record year for us, and we cannot say thank you enough to this wonderful community.”

Harrison and the other group members spent countless days preparing for their annual fundraiser.

“The funding raised during this event help people in need throughout the year in our community," Harrison said. "It allows this organization to give back when things are rough. See a need, fill a need and we had such an amazing turnout from the community, it just fills your heart right to the top.”

Work begins for the event the Sunday prior to the sale. Members gather at the Virginia Christensen Center.

“People come to volunteer, and we never lack for help," Harrison said. "Everyone comes together and the process is really quite smooth. The group has been doing this for so many years, everyone just knows what to do. We lay down flooring to protect the gym floor and then everyone takes a section, and we start to set everything up. This year, we had an abundance of merchandise because we had to store things from last year until this year. We have tables donated from local churches and everything we sell was a donation. The event really takes a community.”

The event lasted two days and in that brief time, Ladies Aid took in a record number of donations.

“I am not at liberty to say how much was donated but I can say that it was the biggest amount I believe we have ever had," Harrison said. "The amount of work that goes into this event in such a short time is a sight to behold.”

Funding from the event goes toward many community outreach opportunities. The organization also makes and sells chile relleno casseroles. This year they sold 180 dishes to people coming to the rummage sale.

“I couldn’t believe how wonderful this event was this year and on behalf of the Ladies Aid, I say thank you to all who helped make it possible,” Harrison said.