June 2026 Furniture Bank Newsletter
From the President
Inspirational Move
We are about one week into life at our new warehouse, and I can honestly say it feels a lot like moving into a new home. There is excitement around every corner, but there is also plenty of work to be done. We have moved more than 500 pieces of furniture, unpacked countless boxes, organized inventory, connected technology, set up phones, and worked through all the details that come with a major transition.
Through it all, I have been continually inspired by our team.
I cannot thank our drivers, warehouse staff, office team, and support staff enough. They have gone above and beyond every step of the way. While many people only see the finished product, I have had the privilege of witnessing the hard work, long hours, teamwork, and dedication that made this move possible. Their commitment to our mission never skipped a beat, even while navigating the challenges of relocating an entire operation.
There is so much to love about our new home. The 20-foot ceilings give us room to breathe. The abundance of natural light creates an inviting atmosphere. We finally have a dedicated linen room where bedding, dishes, small appliances, and household essentials can be organized and distributed more efficiently. We love the large garage door that makes furniture intake and movement easier, and we are thrilled to be in a location that is centrally situated between Pontiac and Detroit, where many of the families we serve reside.
Click images to enlarge
But what excites me most is not the building itself.
What makes me happiest is what this space represents.
For Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit, more space means more opportunity. More room allows us to accept and store more furniture donations. More furniture means we can serve more children, more parents, more veterans, more seniors, and more families who are working hard to rebuild their lives. Every sofa, table, bed, and dresser that enters this warehouse has the potential to transform a house into a home.
This move is about much more than square footage. It is about expanding our impact. It is about creating greater efficiency so we can better serve our community. Most importantly, it is about ensuring that more families throughout Metro Detroit have the furniture and household essentials they need to live with dignity, comfort, and hope.
As we begin this exciting new chapter, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for our incredible staff, our volunteers, our donors, our community partners, and everyone who believes in our mission. Thank you for helping us reach this milestone.
Our address may have changed, but our purpose remains the same: helping families turn empty spaces into homes.
The future is bright, and we cannot wait to see what we accomplish together.
With gratitude,
Diane Charles,
President & CEO
The 7 C’s of the Furniture Flip
- Creative.
- Contest.
- Cash.
- Charity.
- Conservation.
- Community.
- Cool.
After a standout first year, we are building on that success and aiming for an even larger, more competitive event that tops the money raised last year.
From June 1 through August 31, creators, designers, and DIY enthusiasts will transform donated furniture destined for the landfill into original masterpieces that will beautify homes while helping support families across our community.
The 2nd Annual
The 2nd Annual Furniture Flip is officially underway, and this year promises to be bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever.
Last year, participants amazed us with their creativity and craftsmanship. We watched ordinary pieces of furniture become extraordinary works of art. A dresser was transformed into a stylish bar. A grandfather clock found new life as a whimsical Disney-themed bookshelf. Another dresser became a stunning dollhouse that captured the imagination of everyone who saw it.
What will you create?
Whether you’re a seasoned furniture artist, a weekend DIY enthusiast, or someone who has never picked up a paintbrush, the Furniture Flip is your chance to showcase your creativity, make a difference in your community, and compete for over $10,000 in cash prizes, including a $5,000 grand prize winner. Plus we have new categories.
But this event is about more than winning.
It’s about conservation by keeping furniture out of landfills. It’s about community by bringing together creative people from across Metro Detroit. It’s about charity because every entry helps Furniture Bank of Metro Detroit provide beds, tables, dressers, and other essential furnishings to families rebuilding their lives.
And let’s be honest, it’s also just plain cool.
Hilary is Back!
One of the most exciting parts of this year’s competition is the return of television personality and renowned designer Hilary Farr as our Celebrity Judge. Hilary was blown away by the creativity displayed last year, and we can’t wait to see what she thinks of this year’s entries.
New to furniture flipping? Don’t let that stop you.
This year, we’re offering a special workshop designed specifically for beginners and DIY enthusiasts. You’ll learn how to properly prepare furniture, select the right products, understand finishing techniques, and gain the confidence needed to create a piece you’ll be proud to enter.
I’ve already heard about some of the ideas being planned for this year’s competition, and if they’re any indication, the creativity level is going to be off the charts.
Pick up your piece at our new location: 339 E. Whitcomb, Madison Heights, MI 48071.
Workshop Details
Join @DeeDeesFineVintage owner and returning judge Amanda Burgess-Proctor Wednesday, June 17, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Furniture Bank’s Madison Heights location.
Session will include an informative presentation, Q&A, and light refreshments.
Participants will learn what makes a good DIY project, proper preparation and refinishing techniques, tips for common repairs, and insights into what judges will be looking for in evaluating competition entries.
