Unfinished Furniture Association 2001 Charity of Choice Raises $70,000 with Remaining Products

Furniture World Magazine

The Unfinished Furniture Association (UFA) continues to make a difference for their 2001 Charity of Choice in Nashville, Tennessee. The Rochelle Center, an organization that works solely toward the support of adults with disabilities, raised $70,000 with the remaining unfinished furniture from donations received more than a year ago. UFA and The Rochelle Center partnered in 2001 during the National Convention & Trade Show to support the local community in the host city. Twenty-four manufacturers donated more than $15,000 worth of products. The Rochelle Center recently hosted "A Notable Event" where local artists painted the furniture and auctioned off the pieces they were unable to use at the facility. Attendees included such celebrities as Michael McDonald and Kim Carnes. "This far exceeded our expectations," said Leigh Jackson, Rochelle Center’s Director of Development. "We are so grateful for the donations. It would not have been possible without the Unfinished Furniture Association." "We began this program last year as a way of making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate," noted UFA President, Sylvia Thompson of Sonshine Furniture. "It’s such a nice feeling to know they are still reaping the rewards a year later." The Rochelle Center is a nonprofit agency devoted to job training and work opportunities to persons with developmental disabilities and memory loss. Founded in 1972, The Rochelle Center provides a strong sense of self-worth and self-reliance to adults with mental retardation. The program they provide gives family members and caregivers assistance and comfort knowing their loved ones receive quality care in a safe and secure environment. For more information on The Rochelle Center or to donate, please contact 1020 Southside Court, Nashville, TN 37203; phone: 615-254-0673; fax: 615-726-2837; e-mail: kparolini@yahoo.com or visit www.citysearch.com/nas/rochellecenter. For more information on the Unfinished Furniture Association contact: 17000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ, 08054; phone: 800-487-8321; fax: 856-439-0525; e-mail: ufa@ahint.com or visit www.unfinishedfurniture.org.