Dwell with Dignity, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through design, announces the return of its largest fundraiser, Thrift Studio, presented by Amazon. The event kicks off with an exclusive Premiere Party on April 3, followed by a month-long luxury designer pop-up shopping experience at deeply discounted prices from April 4–May 3 at 1833 E. Levee St., Dallas, TX 75207.

The Thrift Studio features six new designers annually who install vignettes using their own donated inventory in addition to general donated items to Dwell with Dignity and unique artwork collected at the Art+Color Party. The 2025 designers include:

• Traci Connell, Traci Connell Interiors

• John Phifer Marrs, John Phifer Marrs Interiors
• Kelly O'Neal Interiors and Design Legacy
• Sara Garza and Maddie Moran, Punch World Studio
• Ashley Ross, Muse Noire
• Marybeth Turner and Allyson Hall, Turner Hall Interiors

For more details on this year’s talented designers, visit here.

The 2025 Thrift Studio is chaired by Samantha Reitmayer Sano and Joslyn Taylor, Swoon, the studio, as well as Art Chair Hannah Brown, Hannah Brown Art.

The Thrift Studio VIP Premiere Party on April 3 offers guests exclusive early access to the curated, designer-furnished pop-up shop before it opens to the public. The event will feature live entertainment, one-of-a-kind shopping opportunities and a chance to engage with the interior designers and supporters behind the transformation. The VIP entrance starts at 6 p.m., and tickets are $275. General admission entrance is at 7 p.m., and tickets are $175. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit here.

Following the Premiere Party, Thrift Studio will open to the public from April 4–May 3. Admission is free, and hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The limited-time shopping event features a curated collection of designer-donated furniture, artwork and décor at inexpensive prices, with 100 percent of proceeds supporting Dwell with Dignity’s mission.

“Thrift Studio isn’t just about shopping—it’s about design as a catalyst for stability and opportunity,” said Teresa Charnock, executive director of Dwell with Dignity. “Every piece sold helps fuel our work to transform houses into homes where families can thrive and turns community spaces into hubs of stability and connection for schools and nonprofit organizations.”

Since Amazon became the Presenting Sponsor of Thrift Studio three years ago, more than $1 million in merchandise sales have fueled Dwell with Dignity’s work, providing life-changing home transformations for 48 families and redesigning 17 community spaces into inspiring, functional environments that serve thousands.

“At Amazon, we’re committed to supporting organizations that provide real solutions to challenges faced by families in our community,” said Vickie Yakunin, Amazon’s head of community engagement in Texas. “We support Dwell with Dignity in a few different ways – through our partnership for Thrift Studio, with employee volunteers and by teaming up to support community partners.” With Amazon’s continued support, Thrift Studio will once again bring together the design community and mission-driven shoppers, making a lasting impact for families and neighborhoods across Dallas.

ABOUT THRIFT STUDIO:
Thrift Studio is a high-end pop-up shop and fundraiser benefiting Dwell with Dignity. The month-long event features designer showrooms curated by top interior designers, showcasing high-quality, donated home furnishings and décor available for purchase at deep discounts. Since its inception, Thrift Studio has become a must-attend event for Dallas’ design and philanthropic communities.

ABOUT DWELL WITH DIGNITY:
Founded in 2009, Dwell with Dignity is a Dallas-based nonprofit with a mission to transform lives through design. By providing and installing interiors for family homes and community spaces for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, the transformations inspire people to lead their best lives and thrive in a safe, functional and beautiful environment. Dwell with Dignity has completed more than 250 home design projects and 50 community spaces, and in 2024 the organization served more than 3,000 people through their home and community projects. The nonprofit is backed by the support of over 100 designers, 1,100 dedicated volunteers and 150 sponsors and donors. Learn more at www.dwellwithdignity.org.

Junior Symphony Ball Shatters Records with Unforgettable

“Party With a Purpose” at Gilley’s Dallas

A Legacy of Student Leadership and Philanthropy

The Junior Symphony Ball (JSB) Party With a Purpose proved once again why it’s one of the most anticipated events for high school students across the metroplex. On February 1, Gilley’s Dallas was transformed into an electrifying hub of music, dancing, and entertainment as over 2,850 sophomores, juniors, and seniors from over 25 schools came together for a sold-out celebration—marking the largest turnout in JSB history. The Steering Committee was comprised of more than 1000 students.

True to its founding vision of “student-led, parent-guided” leadership, the event has grown from a small gathering of schools to an expansive, metro-wide celebration—while remaining committed to its core mission of supporting music education.

From the moment the doors opened, the energy was palpable. The night featured high-energy music, professionally staffed gaming tables, thrilling raffles, exciting prizes, and plenty of refreshments to keep the party going.

At the heart of the night’s electric atmosphere was none other than Detroit native Brandon Williams—better known as 13LACKBEARD. As the official DJ of the Dallas Cowboys, he’s a master at creating an unbeatable energy, and he brought that same stadium-level excitement to JSB. Known for blending the legendary dance beats of Detroit and Chicago, 13LACKBEARD has shared the stage with icons like Beyoncé, The Eagles, Taylor Swift, Post Malone, Kaskade, and Tiësto. His set kept the crowd moving and the dance floor packed all night long.

In keeping with tradition, the evening’s dress code embraced Texas flair, with gentlemen sporting Texas Tuxedos and ladies dazzling in cocktail dresses paired with boots. A sea of sleek black dresses was punctuated by bold pops of color.

Behind the scenes, the event committee worked tirelessly to ensure seamless logistics, crowd control, and a smooth check-in process for the massive turnout. Their meticulous planning and enthusiasm ensured an unforgettable experience.

The lineup of the 2025 Co-Chairs represents schools across Dallas: Tanner Krug, Jesuit College Prep of Dallas; Gracelyn Nix, Highland Park High School; Jack Steed, Highland Park High School; Clara Tolleson, Episcopal School of Dallas; Johnny Willingham, Episcopal School of Dallas; Emerson Mayes, Bishop Lynch High School; Teddy Fleiss, St. Mark's School of Texas; Avery Black, Ursuline Academy; Zack Shapiro, Parish Episcopal School; and Kate Davidson, The Hockaday School. 

Their supportive and proud moms are: Holly Krug, Jonika Nix, Maygan Steed, Rebecca Black, Jojo Fleiss, Tricia Davidson, Amie Mayes, Kacy Tolleson, April Willingham, and Jori Shapiro.

True to the Party with a Purpose theme, co-chairs Tanner Krug and Gracelyn Nix shared, “It was a privilege to help raise funds for the Young Strings of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra while having fun!”

Their moms Holly Krug and Jonika Nix echoed the sentiment, adding, “Chairing an event that supports the Dallas Symphony Orchestra alongside your child is truly one for the memory books.”

More than 100 parent volunteers played a vital role in making the event a success, including Brett Levy, who supported her high schooler while also preparing for another prestigious symphony occasion, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s Presentation Ball on February 15, where her daughter will make her debut.

A special sponsor for the event was Gracelyn’s Hope, a charity founded by co-chair Gracelyn Nix five years ago. “My goal is to raise funds for children and their families, get other kids involved in the fun, and create special moments for children in hospitals or shelters so they can enjoy their childhood,” said Gracelyn.

Additional sponsors include Mr. Tuxedo, Miron Crosby, Sewell, Nightly, Emily & Ashley, Clayton-Waggoner Properties, Raising Cane’s and Highland Park Village. 

Now in its 67th year, JSB is the longest-running fundraiser of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL), supporting vital DSO outreach programs such as Young Strings and Young Musicians.

JSB 2025 was more than just a party—it was a record-breaking night of purpose, passion, and philanthropy.

Follow JSB on Social Media

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JSBdallas/
Instagram @jsbdallas

Photos by Deborah Brown

Key to photos:

1 2025 JSB Co-Chairs: Gracelyn Nix, Tanner Krug, Avery Black, Zach Shapiro, Teddy Fleiss, Kate Davidson, Clara Tolleson, Jack Steed, Emerson Mayes, Johnny Willingham 

The Collin County Soil & Water Conservation District is sponsoring a spring wildflower planting program now through May 15, or while supplies last.  One-pound bags of spring native wildflower seed mix are available for $30 per pound and contain over 20 species, including Black-eyed Susan, coneflowers, Gayfeather, milkweeds, Indian Blanket and Plains Coreopsis. 

Native flowers require less water and maintenance than conventional landscaping flowers and plants and can better withstand our sometimes extreme Texas climate.  Wildflowers also add beauty to the landscape and provide food for wildlife.  The Collin County SWCD uses funds raised from projects such as this to support local conservation programs and education within the District.

One-pound bags of wildflower seed are available for purchase at the District office, 1404 N. McDonald Street, Suite 100, in McKinney, now thru May 15, or while supplies last.  Please call before you come to make sure the seed is in stock at 972-542-0081 ext. 3.  Spring months are the optimal times to plant these wildflowers, and seeding instructions are available with purchases.  Get yours now, while supplies last!

KEEP IRVING BEAUTIFUL SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR ANNUAL AWARDS

“Mayor and KIB Awards” Honor Irving’s Difference Makers

(IRVING, TEXAS) - Keep Irving Beautiful is asking for nominations to be submitted for the 2025 “Mayor and KIB Annual Awards.”  These awards honor local individuals, organizations and businesses that have gone above and beyond in making significant contributions towards making Irving a better place to live, work, play or visit.  KIB will recognize the winners at a reception on Monday, August 4.  Categories include:

• Youth Leadership
• Educator
• Business and Industry
• Media
• Faith Group
• Civic/Nonprofit Organization
• Government
• Civil Servant
• KIB Hometown
• Margie Stipes Lifetime Achievement

Detailed descriptions of each award, a list of the previous year’s winners, and the current nomination form can be found by going to www.keepirvingbeautiful.org. Nominations can be submitted online, or can be downloaded, printed, and mailed or delivered to the KIB office at: 

Keep Irving Beautiful, 3000 Rock Island Road, Irving, TX 75060.

For more information, please contact KIB at 972-721-2175, or email rhose@IrvingTX.gov .

Nominations must be received by Friday, June 6, 2025.

Keep Irving Beautiful is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating our community about litter abatement, recycling, and beautification to help preserve the health and promote the social and economic prosperity of our city. As an award-winning affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Texas Beautiful, Keep Irving Beautiful reaches out to all sectors of our city including government, business, church, cultural, educational, neighborhood and civic organizations.  If you are interested in volunteering with KIB, or making your activity a “green event,” please go to Keep Irving Beautiful, or call (972) 721-2175.

Last year, 27,934 child abuse cases were reported in Dallas County – one every 19 minutes, every day of the year. In April, Galleria Dallas will join the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) in shining a spotlight on this critical issue during Child Abuse Prevention Month.

DCAC is a leading nonprofit dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and providing healing services for child abuse cases in Dallas County. Beginning Tuesday, April 1, the “Pinwheels of Hope” exhibit at Galleria Dallas will feature vibrant pinwheels, symbolizing the carefree and joyful nature of childhood and serving as the national emblem for child abuse prevention. “Pinwheels of Hope” will be on display on Level 1 near Sephora.

This larger-than-life garden, complete with 3D pinwheels, invites visitors to capture memorable photos, learn more about Child Abuse Prevention Month and scan a donation QR code to support survivors and the free healing services DCAC provides, furthering its mission to protect and uplift children in need.

“We are excited to see our annual Pinwheels of Hope campaign grow and evolve, reaching new audiences and fostering greater awareness about child abuse prevention,” said Irish S. Burch, DCAC President and CEO. “This pinwheel display serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to ensure all children experience the joyful childhoods they deserve.”

During the exhibit, DCAC will host a booth at Galleria Dallas' Good Market on April 4-5, located in the center's outdoor plaza near North Italia. The booth will offer family-friendly activities, such as pinwheel-inspired coloring, alongside educational information about child abuse prevention. At this seasonal market, participating vendors generously donate 10% of their sales to a local charity or nonprofit, with DCAC selected as the beneficiary for this spring’s event.

“Ninety-five percent of the abused children that DCAC serves know their offender, so educating the public about child-abuse prevention is critically important,” said Megan Townsend, Galleria Dallas Director of Marketing and Partnerships. “Galleria Dallas is proud to be able to share the missions of organizations like DCAC that do so much to help our community.”

In celebration of National Go Blue Day on Saturday, April 5, several prominent retailers at Galleria Dallas are uniting to demonstrate their commitment to child safety. Nordstrom, Build-A-Bear, Lane Boots, Knots & Loops, Gameday Connexion, Fossil, Inspiration Co., Lindsay Nicholas New York, and Deseri will showcase blue-themed window designs and pinwheels, embracing the official color of prevention.

EVENT INFORMATION

‘PINWHEELS OF HOPE’ DISPLAY

• WHEN: April 1-25, 2025
• WHERE: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas - Level I near Sephora
• COST: Free

Members of the media are invited to attend the mural reveal event at Galleria Dallas on Tuesday, April 1 at 9:00 AM.

GOOD MARKET BENEFITING DCAC

• WHEN April 4-5, 2025
• WHERE: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas - Outdoor Plaza, near North Italia
• Vendors will donate 10% of sales during the weekend to DCAC

About Galleria Dallas

Galleria Dallas is an iconic shopping center with a unique collection of more than 200 retailers, restaurants and experiences including Nordstrom, Macy’s, the world’s only GAP, Banana Republic and Old Navy combo anchor, The Westin Galleria Dallas and the signature Galleria Ice Skating Center. Welcoming more than 12 million visitors annually, only Galleria Dallas delivers the consummate Dallas shopping experience. Visit galleriadallas.com for hours and to learn more about the shopping center. Galleria Dallas is owned by MetLife Investment Management, managed by Trade-mark Property Group, Inc. Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 75240.

For Social Media: @GalleriaDallas #GalleriaDallas

About Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center

For over thirty years, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) has been dedicated to improving the lives of abused children in Dallas County and providing national leadership on child abuse issues. Since opening its doors in 1991 it has served more than 100,000 children and their eligible family members. The Center provides wraparound support services and evidence-based therapeutic counseling free of charge and brings together the agencies that handle criminal child abuse to work as a team reviewing, investigating, and prosecuting cases. DCAC’s coordinated approach results in more successful investigation and prosecution while providing a less traumatic response to children and families. For more information visit dcac.org.

For Social Media: @DallasCAC #DCAC

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CONTACT: Stephanie Horne | 469-994-1629, Shorne@dcac.org