Karen Moore is a nurturer and a doer.
She learned at an early age how compassion can help not only a person in need but also the person providing it, and she knows how to put that into action. In 2008, she and four other Nashvillians started a compassionate venture called Project Redesign. The Nashville nonprofit uses donated home furnishings to help those in need redesign their homes and feel proud of them. It also provides interior redesigns for community centers and other nonprofit organizations. They utilize donated furnishings to turn houses or apartments into comfortable and functional homes. We chatted with Moore about how all of this came about and how it all works.
Nashville Lifestyles: What inspired you to become involved in this cause?
Karen Moore: While delivering Meals on Wheels in the Cayce Homes, I saw kids sleeping on dirty nested clothes and no furniture in their homes. It motivated me to do something to help.
NL: How are the necessary funds raised and utilized?
KM: We have two fundraisers each year. During our “Sip and Shop,” which we have hosted for more than 22 years, we host local businesses and 20 percent goes to Project Redesign. This year’s “Sip and Shop” will be November 14 and 15. Recently, we added “Girls Night Out,” which is a night of music, connection, festive food and drinks, and a silent auction. The next “Girls Night Out” event will be March 6, 2025. Funds from these annual events are used to execute our Reuse, Redesign, Reclaim program. This covers the cost of eight home installations per month plus staffing.
NL: Why is supporting this cause important and how is it vital to our community?
KM: Project Redesign supports a diverse group of thirteen nonprofits. We help these groups transform entire communities one home at a time. We work with our partners in five counties and seven cities in Middle Tennessee to help individuals reclaim their lives.
NL: What in your background most prepared you to found this organization?
KM: I have always enjoyed art and interior design. I have also always enjoyed giving back, which was taught to me as a young girl by my father. Growing up as the daughter of a Funeral Home director, I saw him in action when someone is at their most vulnerable state. It was inspiring to me to see him give of himself in many ways.
NL: Regarding philanthropy, who in your life has influenced you the most?
KM: My father and my Project Redesign Partners: Suzanne Snyder, Ellie Billington, and Allison Douglas. They make our mission fulfilling and fun!
NL: What inspires you to utilize your time, talents, and treasure to support nonprofits?
KM: I am inspired by other nonprofit missions and how Project Redesign can be a part of their vision and goals.