On November 15th, children at Raleigh Rescue Mission bounded off the school bus with eager anticipation and gathered with their parents and younger siblings to see first-hand what had been created just for them. They were thrilled to find the areas where they play and study completely changed, thanks to a team of local designers with a desire to help. Along with members of the media and a throng of volunteers, RRM clients and staff watched as the newly designed area was revealed.
The designers donated their time and talents to redesign the 1,485 square foot space. They partnered with a national organization, Design For A Difference, as well as a local non-profit, A Lotta Love, founded by Charlotta Sjoelin. In addition, the project was documented by a local production company led by Sloane Heffernan, and Mark Burnetz, Emmy Award winning TV host and producer, from Design For A Difference, who flew in from California to capture the unveiling.
Says Betty Nelson, owner of Raleigh-based Eatmans Carpets & Interiors (http://eatmansinc.com/), who spearheaded the project, “I am passionate about helping those suffering from homelessness. To help provide a space of dignity and joy for our children temporarily living at the Raleigh Rescue Mission provides hope, security, and a feeling of worth for them and for us!”
The redesign includes updates to the teen and children’s spaces, kitchen, bathrooms, computer room, and childcare team office, as well as a brand new yoga/quiet room. It is both beautiful and practical – a true example of God’s love in action.
God continues to be at work in so many ways at Raleigh Rescue Mission! We’ll let you know when this video will be revealed. In the meantime, sign up for a Discovery Tour to see this beautiful space in person and better understand what it means to the children we serve.
About Design For A Difference: Design For A Difference is the only community based, design-driven movement that spans both the US and Canada. Now in its 6th year, the initiative partners socially conscious members with other businesses and interior designers to make over much needed spaces at local charities. For more information go to www.DesignForADifference.com.
About A Lotta Love: A Lotta Love transforms local shelters by creating dignified, safe and emotionally inspiring spaces. It raises awareness of homelessness and empowers communities to transform these shelters to benefit the families temporarily living there. For more information go to https://www.alottalove.org/.
