Holly Simon of Beverly/Morgan Park launched her home-based handmade purse and accessory business, HollyWear, four years ago to occupy her time during therapy sessions for her then-infant son, Nathaniel, who has Down Symdrome.

Simon now stages HollyDays, an annual craft fair at the beginning of the holiday shopping season, to raise funds for the National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS). The fair, located in a different private home each year, will be held for the third time from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 6 at 10425 S. Talman Ave.

“This year’s house is one of the prettiest in our neighborhood,” Simon said. “I could not be happier that they are allowing us to showcase their home for our event."

In addition to Simon, several local artisans will be selling hand made gifts and other unique items, including:

Billi Traynor – Glass cake plates, bistro aprons, hand-painted ornaments, custom-designed tuffets and custom painted family signs.

Pamela Holt – Jewelry from semiprecious stones, silver, copper and glass.

Stacy DuPress – Vintage jewelry.

Nancy Herringer – Jewelry and small furniture pieces.

Georgettte Klier – Wreaths and holiday décor.

Richard Zidek Designs – Cityscapes and metal sculptures.

Kathy Delaney – Handmade chocolates.

Daneen Klauba – Crystal and gem jewelry.

Cindy Tokoly – Matilda Jane clothing.

Vendors will donate 10% of their sales to NADS, an organization that provides resources, networking and support for people with Down Syndrome and their families, in honor of Nathaniel Simon’s 6th birthday – Simon has been asking neighbors and friends for donations to NADS rather than gifts for Nate since his second birthday.

All proceeds from the HollyDays raffle will benefit NADS.

“I feel so strongly about giving to NADS,” Simon said. “When you are faced with a new challenge, you’re scared and feel so alone. NADS is right there to offer you encouragement, hope, understanding and knowledge.”

Each year Simon has donated 10% of her annual HollyWear earnings to NADS, the oldest organization in the country serving individuals with Down syndrome and their families. NADS was founded in Chicago in 1961 by parents who chose to raise their children with Down Syndrome at home.

Their mission is to ensure that all persons with Down Syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their potential in all aspects of community life. For more information about the 3rd annual HollyDays, call Simon at (773) 239-3062. For more information about NADS, call (630) 325-9112.