As you may know, I work at ReHouse Architectural Salvage in Rochester, NY.  A few months back we were contacted by the Chautauqua Institution, a “community on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York state that comes alive each summer with a unique mix of fine and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship and programs, and recreational activities.”  They have a large covered amphitheater where many of their events are held.  Last year they replaced the seating in the amphitheater, but the benches had to be custom made due to the slope of the floor and angle of the sections.  Because the custom benches would not be completed in time for the summer season, they had temporary benches made to accommodate guests for that one season.  Once the permanent benches were complete the temporary ones were removed.

At this point they contacted us to see if we would be interested in the benches.  We said yes.  We took about 150 benches that are 4 feet in length and a few that are longer.  The Institution made a donation of the benches to the Vietnam Veterans through ReHouse.  This way, when the benches are sold a portion of the money goes back to the Veterans in Chapter 20.

We decided to use the benches to make even more of an impact in the community by holding a Create-A-Bench Auction.  Participants paid a $25 registration fee which got them one of the 4′ benches which they decorated however they wanted to.  They are all being auctioned off online through BiddingOwl to raise money for Rochester Open Door Mission’s Coldwater House, a facility with residences and programs for women and children.

I decided to do one myself, and I am glad to show it to you.  In fact, I wish I could keep it!

Would you mind voting for your favorite 3 out of all the entries?  You can do it HERE before October 20. I hope you like it. I had so much fun doing it. I think I will make one for myself!