Across the country, NKBA chapters demonstrate that great design goes far further than beautiful baths and kitchens; it’s also about improving lives and strengthening communities. From building homes to supporting veterans and uplifting women in need, these three charitable events highlight the powerful role NKBA plays beyond the design industry.
Above photo: Members of the California Capital Chapter participated in Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Day in Sacramento.
Photo by Yvonne Harty, CKBD; courtesy of NKBA.
Building Hope With California Capital
In March, members of the NKBA California Capital Chapter stepped away from their desks and design studios to participate in Sacramento Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Day. Ten NKBA volunteers worked on homes under construction, performing hands-on tasks such as painting and installing siding.
Working together outside a traditional professional setting fostered teamwork, connection and pride, while reinforcing the natural alignment between NKBA’s focus on building better living spaces and Habitat’s life-changing mission.
More than a volunteer day, the event strengthened the chapter itself by building camaraderie, deepening member engagement and enhancing the chapter’s visibility as a group of design professionals dedicated to social responsibility.
Designing With Purpose in Metro New York
In April, the NKBA Metro New York Chapter transformed the Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove showroom in Roslyn Heights into a fundraising space for Paws of War. More than 70 members of the design community gathered to support the nonprofit that rescues dogs and trains them as service companions for veterans and first responders.
The evening’s highlights included a lively raffle featuring 26 donated prizes and a performance by David Frank, the magician for the New York Mets and New York Islanders, sponsored by Dawn Weill.
The fundraiser’s success was driven by months of thoughtful planning. Special recognition goes to Marilyn Rose, whose passion and personal connection to Paws of War inspired the event. She organized raffle baskets, donated a private tour of Citi Field with Mets tickets and helped set a tone of purpose and heart.
The evening strengthened member relationships, elevated NKBA’s visibility and reinforced the chapter’s identity as a community-driven organization that designs with purpose.
Celebrating the Season of Giving in Northern New England
NKBA’s Northern New England Chapter blended seasonal celebration with heartfelt generosity at its annual holiday party, hosted at Cosentino in Canton, Mass. The evening brought together music, creativity and community in support of Rosie’s Place, a women’s shelter that provides safety and life-changing support services.
Food Network star and Top Chef Stephen Coe elevated the experience with exceptional food service, while a hands-on craft project allowed attendees to create something meaningful to take home.
At the heart of the celebration was the chapter’s long-standing commitment to Rosie’s Place. Guests were encouraged to donate goods and clothing, and all admission fees were donated to the shelter. Chapter President Merry LeClerc shared, “NKBA’s Northern New England Chapter has supported Rosie’s Place for many years. It’s a very worthy cause, especially around the holidays.”
By transforming a joyful gathering into an opportunity to uplift women seeking safety, dignity and hope, the Northern New England Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to service, inclusivity and community engagement.
A Shared Mission, A Lasting Impact
Though each event was unique, all three chapters shared a common purpose: using their platform, skills and creativity to give back. Whether building homes, supporting veterans or uplifting women in need, these events exemplify the heart of NKBA – designing not just spaces but stronger communities.
