Harden Launches “Living Canopy” Project

March 6, 2007  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in on March 2007 Harden Furniture is leading the charge in a fundraising and awareness movement to create opportunities for youth education and environmental cleanup in upstate New York.

As part of the Living Canopy Project, Harden has commissioned Greensboro, N.C., artist Brian Hibbard to create a symbol for the project to raise industry awareness and generate funds for a New York State-based land and water restoration effort.

The project is planned in conjunction with Camden High School Science Department in Camden, N.Y., and State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse. Harden kicks off its fundraising efforts during the spring High Point Market on Tuesday, March 27, with an afternoon event honoring the company’s 163 years in business.

Raffle tickets will be on sale in Harden’s showroom at 200 N. Hamilton throughout the week and are available to anyone attending the market. Proceeds from the sale will be matched by Harden Furniture and be donated to the school program. The holder of the winning ticket, which will be announced at the close of the market, can choose to have the 30-pound steel tree sculpture delivered to the location of their choice, courtesy of Harden, or they may donate the Living Canopy Project to Camden High School as a record of the students’ work. Former New York Governor George Pataki appointed Greg Harden, president, Harden Furniture, to the New York State Environmental Board in December 2006. Harden’s company has a long-held commitment to sustainable forestry practices and the protection of the environment.

“Our goal at Harden has always been to be good stewards of the environment, and an important part of that effort is giving students the opportunity for hands-on experience with environmental issues,” Harden said. “Likewise, we have also been on the forefront of raising awareness regarding sound environmental practices within the furniture industry. The Living Canopy Project is just one way to bring communities and industry together to make things better for everyone. And, the creation of a symbolic work of art is a beautiful reminder for all.”