March 24, 2009
CHAIRity Event Raises $34,700 for Domestic Violence Victims
More than 280 people attended the ninth annual CHAIRity event, “Sit a Moment, Stop the Violence,” to help raise money for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
Eleven chairs, designed Arizona State University interior design students, were on display and sold during live and silent auctions at the event. Each chair reflected the style of a particular artist and made a statement about domestic violence. Inspiration came from Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nendo, Bernard Tschumi, Luis Salazar and others.
The winning chair, “Bus Stop,” was designed by ASU students Jenny Kern, Jodie Smith and Josie Urban. The chair, inspired by graphic designer Barbara Kruger, used provocative graphics to educate viewers about the prevalence of domestic violence and sold through the live auction for $2,700. The 11 auctioned student-designed chairs raised $8,755.
Proceeds from the chair sales and sponsor support for the dinner raised $34,700 that will benefit the Phoenix Family Advocacy Center (FAC), which provides comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse victims and their families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of these services include support groups, counseling, financial assistance, food vouchers and transportation assistance for FAC clients.
The event, held at the Phoenix Art Museum, was hosted by Councilwoman Peggy Neely, District 2, and members of the FAC Fundraising Committee.
“The event offers ASU interior design students an opportunity to not only create a chair but also to heighten their awareness of domestic violence issues,” said CHAIRity Honorary Chairwoman Neely. “Together we can assist victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse to feel safe and supported through the services offered by the city’s Family Advocacy Center.”
Major event sponsors included Arizona Federal Credit Union, Target Corporate Interiors, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Arizona, Steelcase, city of Phoenix Aviation Department, Fifer Design Studio, HDR, Arizona Public Service, The Arizona Republic, ASU College of Design, AWE Corporate Interiors, city of Phoenix Water Services, FM Solutions, International Interior Design Association Southwest Chapter, The Paradies Shops and SUMCO. The presenting media sponsor was Phoenix Woman magazine.
For information about the Family Advocacy Center, call 602-534-3072 or visit phoenix.gov/fac.
Media Contact:
| Marcie Colpas | 602-262-6164 |