Ten years ago, when Alison Dodson Anderson chose a little cottage on the hill alongside Route 17 in North Suffolk to open her home decor, apparel and gift shop, some folks considered it a risky proposition.

But Anderson thought the venture worth the risk and believed that if she built a shopping oasis where home and fashion stylists combined rustic and chic in one setting, while passionately supporting the community, then A. Dodson’s would become a destination.

Ten years later, the shop remains in business, and folks come from all around to visit and support its charitable ventures, Anderson says.

To date, A. Dodson’s has given more than $30,000 to local charities, including the Taylor Bend YMCA, Relay for Life, Ronald McDonald House, For Kids and the Suffolk Humane Society, to name just a few. Two years ago, A. Dodson’s created their Round Up program to sponsor a charity every month.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, the company is giving away a $100 gift certificate each day in February. Look for A. Dodson’s on Facebook for more information.