Shannon Hadaway has a heart for helping others. The co-owner of Mixed Medley, a discount retail store in Columbia, wanted to support other businesses, individuals and nonprofits in her community.

"I thought I could try and raise some money to help people, especially because so many people are struggling after this past year," she stated. So, Hadaway sprang into action and began organizing a flea market and rummage sale to benefit Columbia Animal Shelter. The event will be held at the shelter, 265 S. 10th St., from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 10.

"This is my first time organizing something like this," she said. "I wasn't sure how it was going to go, but it's coming together."

Hadaway's business is located across the street from the shelter, and she is a frequent visitor to the nonprofit. "I have met quite a few of the volunteers who work there, and they are wonderful," she remarked. "I thought, 'How can I help this place?' and then I realized there are so many people in the community I'd like to help."

Vendors at the flea market are charged a fee to rent their space for the day, with proceeds benefiting the shelter. Participants in the event include crafters, artists, small businesses and nonprofits including Leo's Helping Paws and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). "I also help to raise money for CASA yearly, so I wanted to include them as well," Hadaway noted. "We will also have a booth by Loyal Soul Collection. She does homemade skin care (products). We'll have Scentsy and Paparazzi vendors." The animal shelter will have a table set up as well, with merchandise including glassware and T-shirts for sale.

"I wanted to do this event to raise awareness of some of the people in our community who are running their own businesses, while also letting people know about the nonprofits that are out there who need support," Hadaway said. "It's going to be a fun community day."

Space is still available for participants, she noted. For more information, call Hadaway at 717-443-2812 or email mixed-medley@yahoo.com.