who organized it along with Karen Windover, Lizanne Donnell and Chris Thompson.

The sale is part of the students' class in fundraising fundamentals. The students are introduced to the principals of effective fundraising, campaign planning and development, volunteer recruitment and management, direct mail marketing, capital campaigns, solicitations and special events.

"First garage sale of the season is our slogan and we're doing okay actually," she said.

The sale was held from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 15 and although not traditionally held this time of year, the sale was doing well, raising $100 by noon. Stephens said a lot of the sale items were brought in from other students, their families and anywhere else they could find it.

"A lot of it came from my basement," she said.

Every student involved expressed their gratitude to those who showed up to shop.

"Today we're surprised with the turnout considering the weather and (the sale being) this early in the season. We're actually quite pleased with the amount of people that have been here," said Donnelly.

All proceeds from the sale are being donated to the Salvation Army.

"We picked the Salvation Army because it runs a lot of community programs in Belleville and helps all sorts of people," said Donnelly.

Thompson echoed Donnelly's sentiment.

"We didn't think we were going to do as well as we did just because of the weather. I'm definitely pleased with the turnout and having the success we did. The Salvation Army is going to be very appreciative," he said.

Donnelly said many customers were pleased to make a contribution.

"A lot of people showed up and bought things that they probably didn't want. But they're supportive of the cause and our efforts," she said.

Tina Wells came to see what the sale had to offer.

"I was just driving by and I saw the sign. I thought it was a nice day for a yard sale. It's a great idea," she said.

Wells wasn't aware the sale's proceeds were going to charity but was excited when she learned the true nature of the event.

"I think that's an awesome idea. (The Salvation Army) is my favourite charity. I donate there all the time. I always encourage people to donate there," she said.

The students said that Wells wasn't the only enthusiastic visitor to the sale.

"This morning a man came, threw his bicycle into the snow-bank and was very excited. He purchased a Zippo lighter and a pair of binoculars that were a kids' toy. He was enthusiastically looking through boxes. He was very excited," said Stephens.

The students said some of the better items were power saws, a DVD player and a set of 1976 Montreal Olympic glasses. They said those items went quickly. All items that are not sold will be donated to the Salvation Army where they will be sold from their thrift store location on Pinnacle Street in Belleville.