Transforming Lives: How Project Redesign Furnishes Hope for Families in Crisis
Home-makeover shows often delight viewers with stunning “after” photos, but it’s the “before” snapshots that truly resonate with Karen Moore, co-founder and CEO of Project Redesign. One image, in particular, drives her mission: a heart-wrenching picture of a man and a toddler on the cold floor of an empty apartment—safe, yet far from comfortable. For Karen, this symbolizes why she is dedicated to providing furniture for families in crisis. “People don’t realize how crucial furniture is,” she explains. “It’s not only about aesthetics; it’s essential for making a house functional.”
The Genesis of Project Redesign
Project Redesign was born in 2005, following the catastrophic floods from Hurricane Katrina, which displaced thousands of people to Nashville into vacant apartments. Karen and her friends—Suzanne Snyder, Ellie Billington, and Alison Douglas—began by gathering donations of furniture from their personal networks, local designers, and furniture retailers, aiming to furnish homes for Katrina refugees at no cost.
As the needs grew, so did their efforts. They partnered with various nonprofits like Thistle Farms, Safe Haven, Renewal House, and the Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition, all of which support women and families in recovery. Currently, Karen continues to lead the organization while Mary Patton Murphy manages day-to-day operations, installations, and fundraising activities. Recently, a successful Girls Night Out event at Hillwood Country Club raised approximately $135,000 to support storage and transportation needs.
Recent Impact and Ongoing Needs
One of Project Redesign’s remarkable achievements includes a recent collaboration with Mending Hearts, where they transformed 33 bedrooms in a residential recovery center for women overcoming addiction and various crises. This ambitious initiative requires a significant furniture supply. Therefore, Project Redesign is actively seeking donations of gently-used items, especially end tables, matching lamps, and long dressers. They also offer free pickup services for donations.
“The beautiful thing about giving furniture is we try to keep track of who gave us what, so we can send them an ‘after’ picture,” Karen adds, highlighting how they celebrate each transformation.
Join the Movement
If you’re interested in making a difference, there are various ways you can help. Whether through volunteering or donating furniture, your support can significantly enhance the lives of those in need. For more information, visit Project Redesign.
In conclusion, Project Redesign exemplifies how essential furniture is in the lives of families facing challenging circumstances. A home fully furnished is not merely a space; it’s a sanctuary. By coming together as a community, we can help transition empty houses into cherished homes.
For more insights and ideas on home design, visit our blog at ChatbiHouse.
