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New Yorkers Giving Back Through Design on a Dime
By Natasha Senko
If it’s one preconceived notion that was quickly corrected within the first few weeks of me living in New York, its that New Yorkers are rude and want nothing more out of life than to misguide you to the Bronx!! So not the case. I found, early on, that New Yorkers are some of the nicest, most helpful people you will ever meet. In a city where everyone is virtually on top of each other, we have no choice but to work together for the common good. All walks of life live and work in limited space.
On top of dealing with the daily grind, that helpful New Yorker still finds time in their busy schedule to do things that benefit others. There are so many organizations that assist those who have fallen on hard times, and New York based Housing Works is one of them.
Housing Works, who’s sole purpose is to raise money for homeless and low-income New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS, is dedicated to providing medical facilities, drug treatment, housing facilities, meals, and so much more to countless New Yorkers who are suffering from this continued epidemic.
Besides the money gained from their now 10 thrift shops throughout New York City, Housing Works hosts several yearly events to help raise money for their programs. Their number 1 event, now in it 6th year, is Design on a Dime. It is New York’s most popular interior design benefit which raised nearly $500,000 last year alone!! This year, the money raised benefits Housing Works’ 874 Jefferson Avenue Residence Project.
This new housing facility consists of 12 units that will provide homes for single, formerly homeless adults living with HIV/AIDS. The beauty of this project, other than obviously helping those in need, is that this facility will incorporate many sustainable design and construction techniques, including no-VOC paints, floor tiles made of 85% quartz, and furniture made with recycled plastics-providing a place where people want to live, not just another shelter.
Design on a Dime, presented by Kmart and Sears, showcases 50 top designers, each with their own stylistic rooms. Some of this year’s designers include Ty Pennington, Jaclyn Smith, Nathan Thomas, Peter Som, and yours truly DLS. The star-studded opening night gala and auction is Thursday, May 6th and the rooms will be open to the public Friday & Saturday, May 7th & 8th.
Many generous companies have donated some amazing furniture and home accessories that are all for sale. So whether you are looking to buy some incredible home goods to support this great cause or just to view the gorgeous rooms on display, come out to the Metropolitan Pavilion this weekend.