“It was an amazing turnout, with over 80 in attendance and $5,210 raised to continue supporting those in need across Long Island,” said Ryan Yuhas. The Director of Development at Open Door Exchange (ODE) was boasting about the First Annual Trivia Fundraiser they held at Po Boy Brewery. Both, located in 11776, are members of the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce. Makai Ballo, ODE Director of Operations, is a Quizmaster whose skills wowed the crowd. It was a party!
As the first furniture bank on Long Island, Open Door Exchange connects donated furniture at no cost to individuals and families in crisis or transition. They believe furniture is essential to building a safe and comfortable home.
Created in 2015 as an outreach mission of the Setauket Presbyterian Church, they are becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a warehouse and a full-fledged volunteer crew. “Volunteer recruitment is ongoing. Adults with energy who want to assist us are encouraged to call,” Ryan added. As an all-volunteer chamber, we understand.
Ryan continued, “We are right at home with the Port Jefferson Station/Terryville Chamber of Commerce. We have built strong personal and business relationships with members and the board. Like us, they devise creative solutions and have helped promote our mission through network events.”
Ryan was a guest presenter at the Earth Day themed member meeting. While helping people create healthy homes, ODE has kept 1.2 million pounds of furniture out of the Brookhaven landfill.
They are now an official PaintCare drop-off location. Used paint cans can be recycled, and partially full cans are reused to support families moving into new homes.
It is always a good time to do the right thing. Assess your home, office, and garage.
Contact ODE at opendoorexchange.org or call 631-743-6903 for more information about donations, services volunteering and trivia!
