For Northern Virginia high school student and amateur woodworker Colby Samide, a “do it yourself” project quickly evolved into “do it for others.”
And Lowe’s was happy to lend some helping hands.
Samide created “Desks for Distance” in August, having heard about the shortage of desks for students learning from home across the area. The junior built a desk for himself to better focus on his schoolwork and soon realized other kids might also benefit from a desk of their own.
“I definitely understand the need for a specific workspace dedicated to you,” Samide told WUSA-9. “I know there’s children out there whose parents can’t afford the things they need. It’s definitely a struggle for them and I know that this is helping them.”
There was an immediate and positive response from the community, which prompted MOSS Building & Design to offer assistance and help fulfill the many requests he had received.
That’s how the “BuildAPalooza” event, which took place on September 28, was born. MOSS Building & Design hosted the event, providing space to help build the desks. Lowe’s gladly accepted the opportunity to assist and contribute over $3,000 to the cause.
“We were able to donate the material to build 60 desks,” Chantilly store manager Josh Wilner said, who volunteered alongside a group of Lowe’s associates. “Those desks were built and sanded (Monday), and they’ll be distributed to kids who need them.
“Colby was thinking of others, and this is just an awesome way to give back to the community, especially with the times we’re living in right now.”
