The recent, Connections-organized International Bazaar raised nearly ¥4 million for local charities.

The three-day, annual sale, which ran from November 8 to 10, drew more than 1,000 shoppers and saw almost ¥20 million in sales, surpassing last year's figure.

"The joy that this event brought to our community—local vendors, shoppers, volunteers and staff—made the planning, preparations and hard work so worthwhile," says Connections President Heidi Regent.

Connections supports a number of local nonprofits through its sales, charity drives and other fundraising efforts.