La Différence Donates over $20,000 To Local Charities Behalf of Its Patrons

Furniture World Magazine

Sarah Paxton and Andy Thornton, owners of LaDifférence International Home Furnishings, recently presented checks of $11,000 each to two Richmond-based charities - The East District Family Resource Center and the Christian Children's Fund. The monies were raised at the La Différence Gala Grand Opening in March. "La Différence is very pleased to present these checks to The Christian Children's Fund and the East District Family Resource Center on behalf of our patrons and industry partners," said Andy Thornton, president of La Différence. "When we moved La Différence International Home Furnishings to the Watkins- Cottrell building, we made a commitment to doing business in the City of Richmond and to the members of our community. These donations are just, what we hope will be, the first in our partnerships." Shep Harder, the director of development for the Christian Children's Fund, said that the gift from LaDifférence will help CCF address childrens' needs in Honduras and in Kosovo. "With the help of La Différence, children in Honduras and Kosovo will have a chance for a better life. CCF has developed a program for children who've been traumatized by war and violence. This War Trauma Program can help the children of Kosovo begin to heal with help and guidance and can even help them to break the cycle of violence. In Honduras, the children are still struggling to overcome the devastation brought by Hurricane Mitch. There are serious health concerns and, we anticipate record food shortages. This summer CCF will be working to rebuild homes, latrines, clinics and schools." Debra Johnson-Seabrook, the director of The East District Family Resource Center in Church Hill, said that the LaDifférence donation will be used to complete important renovations to the Resource Center's building, including the insulation. "We provide support for families both as individuals and families. Our programs include parenting classes, GED courses, male support groups and computer training for adults, tutoring, reading, dance and arts and crafts for children, and family nights for intergenerational fun. The generous gift we've received from LaDifférence will help to ensure the continuation of these programs." Over 800 guests, including representatives of the Home Furnishings Industry from Denmark, Italy, England, Canada and across the states, attended the event in the newly renovated LaDiff6rence/Watkins-Cottrell building. Guests danced to the music of two bands-, enjoyed food by local restaurants; and raised $22,000 at an incredible benefit auction. Natuzzi, American Leather, McCreary Modern, Thayer Coggin, Ekornes, T Copeland, Baronet, Club 8, Comfort Designs, Becker Designs, Currey and Co., George Kovacs, Jesper, Johnston Casuals, Spring Air and a host of European manufacturers generously donated over 100 items, over $45,000 worth of merchandise, to the auction.