Julie Andrews, Aaron Kennedy, Ryan Gilmore, and Candice Gervase served at The Green Chair Project.Julie Andrews, Aaron Kennedy, Ryan Gilmore, and Candice Gervase served at The Green Chair Project.Julie Andrews, Aaron Kennedy, Ryan Gilmore, and Candice Gervase served at The Green Chair Project.Last week, a few Marketers from JMP went behind the scenes at The Green Chair Project, a Wake County nonprofit that turns empty houses into furnished homes. They don't just provide furniture; they provide a fresh start for families and individuals in crisis – outfitting four full households every single day.
I joined the volunteer crew and witnessed the operation's efficiency firsthand. It wasn’t just an ordinary Thursday; it was one with profound reflection and gratitude. When I arrived, it was beautiful, organized, and very efficient. They outfit families with everything from a casserole dish to wall art. They change lives.
The impact of this work is best seen through the eyes of those who walk through their doors. Take Venita, who moved to Raleigh in March 2026 with nothing but an Amtrak ticket and a determination to change her life.
Ryan Gilmore takes photos of the staged furniture to use for The Green Chair Project's marketing purposes.Ryan Gilmore takes photos of the staged furniture to use for The Green Chair Project's marketing purposes.Ryan Gilmore takes photos of the staged furniture to use for The Green Chair Project's marketing purposes.After finding a job and a place to live, she arrived at The Green Chair Project to find everything she needed to turn an empty space into her home. The experience was transformative. A volunteer named Nick helped Venita navigate the sophisticated showroom, instantly making her feel at ease. Venita selected everything she needed, not just a bed, but the art for her walls and even a toothbrush.
“They furnished my whole house," Venita said. Today, she is thriving in a space that reflects her hard work and new sense of purpose.
The Green Chair Project relies on the community to keep its well-oiled machine running. Whether it’s donating high-quality furniture or volunteering your time to help neighbors like Venita, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
We love Green Chair - such an impactful organization!!!
