10 Things to add to your holiday gift list
1. Johnson County Museum memberships
Share the vibrant history of our community with the people in your life. With options for individuals, couples, families and groups, your membership supports educational programming and exhibits. It also includes free admission, discounts on programs and store purchases, invitations to exhibit openings, members-only events and an e-newsletter to stay current on all things Johnson County Museum. Learn more about Johnson County Museum memberships.
2. Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center gift shop
Are you looking for ideas for the nature fans on your present list? The nature center’s gift shop carries a fun variety of options, including rocks and gems, jewelry, bug candy and unique books. Learn more about Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center.
3. Johnson County Museum Store
Inside the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center lobby, the Museum Store has a selection of gifts related to current exhibits and items by local creators. Learn more about Johnson County Museum.
4. Johnson County Park & Recreation District gift cards
JCPRD offers programs and events for all ages! Can’t choose the perfect gift among the many offerings? Gift cards can be used to pay for programs, golf course fees, shelter rentals, memberships, JCPRD fishing, boating, archery, and metal detecting permits. Find more information about JCPRD gift cards.
5. Papercrete Works
This Johnson County Developmental Supports program serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with an opportunity to learn job skills and earn an hourly wage. The staff works with those served to create a variety of Papercrete products with a mixture of cement, water and recycled paper. Check out their products online at jocogov.org/papercrete-works.
6. JCDS Emerging Artists
Another gift opportunity brought to you by JCDS is the Emerging Artists Program. Individuals with IDD in the program utilize a variety of creative mediums, from acrylic and watercolor paint to ceramics and sculpture. Artwork sales go directly to the artists. Check out their artwork online jocogov.org/emerging-artists.
7. JCPRD Poster Project
Start a new collection with JCPRD’s Public Art Program posters. These stunning designs, created by talented local artists in the style of Federal Art Projects of the 1930s, showcase four beloved JCPRD parks – Big Bull Creek, Cedar Niles, Lexington Lake and Shawnee Mission. Purchase online today and have them shipped directly to your door or for pick up at the Arts & Heritage Center. Learn more about the poster project.
8. Johnson County Library’s MakerSpace
Visit the Black & Veatch MakerSpace to start your perfect handmade gift. Check out a wide variety of equipment, including 3D printers, a CNC router, laser cutters, a vinyl cutter and heat press, sewing machines and a serger. Visit their site to reserve time on the equipment, view online tutorials and sign up for classes: jocolibrary.org/makerspace.
9. Weekly Pop-Up Book Sales
The Friends of Johnson County Library host Saturday book sales at their headquarters in Lenexa. With an assortment of high quality donated and former library books, including popular and recent titles, funds raised support Johnson County Library. Friends members receive a 20% discount. Learn more at friendsofjcl.org.
10. Charitable gifts
Speaking of Friends of Johnson County Library, several other nonprofit 501c3 organizations benefit a variety of county departments. Make a charitable gift this holiday season to help out local programs.
- Friends of Johnson County Library
- Friends of JCDS
- Friends of Johnson County Mental Health Center ($50 donations to their Remarkably Resilient Campaign receive a self-care journal and two card decks)
- Friends of the Johnson County Museum
- Johnson County Library Foundation
- The Parks & Recreation Foundation of Johnson County
- Johnson County Extension Education Foundation