Inspired to make a difference through her participation in the New York City Marathon, Sheinelle Jones, co-host of TODAY 3rd Hour, was in search of a partner who could help breathe new life into a space that benefited local children and families. Fortunately, Lowe's stepped up in a big way!
Lowe's teamed up with Jones to renovate a community room at the Volunteers of America (VOA) Lydia Hoffman Family Residence in New York City as a part of Lowe's Hometowns.
The residence serves as a home for as many as 35 families as they transition out of homelessness. It only has one community room for families and staff to gather, relax, complete homework or crafts, and cool off in the summer. With significant use over the years, the tired room desperately needed a refresh.
Staff and residents at VOA needed the space to meet multiple needs, so Lowe's brought in professional design help from ClayVon Lowe, Sr. Director of Product Design and Trends and Monica Reese, Director of Private Brand Style. Together, they carefully crafted a design to serve adults and children and create an environment that inspires all to dream big.
"As we were standing outside and I saw the school bus stop and the kids who lived in the building got out and their parents came out [to greet them] for me, everything crystallized," said Acheampong. "It could be the most difficult and uncomfortable time for most of these kids, but to have a space like this where they can have some joy and they can enjoy coming to it, makes such a difference."
With the design in hand, New York-based district sales execution managers Curtis Stabile and Michael Acheampong got to work. The pair worked closely with the designers to pull products and engage local service providers to complete the renovation.
Inspired by the organization's mission, the Lowe's vendor partners donated their time to support the initiative. J&S Flooring installed flooring throughout the entire space and the bathroom, while NJA Remodeling and Home Improvements installed the custom-designed cabinetry, desk area and book nook shelving that more than doubled storage for the space.
Over 50 expert Red Vest associates volunteered throughout the project, including over 30 volunteers at a Red Vest volunteer day with Sheinelle. Associates painted, installed wallpaper, replaced ceiling tiles and cleaned and styled the space to prep for the big reveal. Throughout their time, volunteers were deeply inspired by the organization's mission. "Seeing our vendors are installers, everything and the willingness to chip in and make this project come to life was incredible for me," shared Stabile.
Every product, except for two, used in the renovation was a Lowe's product. Lowe's trend and design products added a special touch to make the space feel more like home, including STAINMASTER® Color of the Year English Green, Origin 21 peel and stick wallpaper, and décor items like glass jars, baskets and nearly real faux plants. Overall, the renovation included new flooring, new flooring and tile in the bathroom, new kitchen space – including a new beautiful faucet/full-size sink and refrigerator, work space with custom cabinetry and desk space as well as a reading nook for children to be inspired and dream. Thanks to our team on the ground, we also had room in the budget to renovate their storage and diaper closets.
"I've challenged every team in our district to submit a nomination for Lowe's Hometowns," said Stabile. "Lowe's Hometowns is such a powerful way to make a difference where we live and work."
The nomination period for Lowe's Hometowns is open through February 19. Learn more by visiting Lowes.com/Hometowns.
