Eighty-three independent jewelers across the United States and Canada raised more than $36,000 for charity this holiday season in collaboration with Sarah’s Hope Jewelry. Stores donated a percentage from sales of select Sarah’s Hope Jewelry pieces to a charity of their choice.

Jewelers Mutual Co. offered a $1,000 donation to Goodman’s Jewelers for raising the most money. The store, located in Madison, Wis., helped the charity event surpass its $25,000 goal by bringing in $2,478 for the Goodman Community Center.

“Given current economic conditions, charities are struggling to find financial assistance to keep their programs afloat as they work to meet often the most basic of human needs: food, shelter, safety, and so much more,” Sarah J. Smith, founder of Sarah’s Hope, said in a statement. “Jewelers and their customers opened their hearts and changed lives. I am deeply moved by the commitment and support of this program.”

As the oldest jewelry store in Madison, Goodman’s has been giving back to the community since opening its doors in 1933. Current owner, John Hayes, carries on the philanthropic spirit that was instilled in him by the store’s founders, brothers Bob and Irwin Goodman.

Described by Hayes as a “gem in neighborhood services,” the Goodman Community Center was a natural recipient of the fundraising. The Goodman brothers had previously paid for the center’s renovation, turning an old factory into a service center for all age groups.

“One thousand dollars extra goes a long way when helping the community,” Hayes says. “I am thankful for Jewelers Mutual for contributing to our donation and commend all of the other jewelers who participated in the program and gave back from the heart.”

JCK