Shopping for Joy this Holiday Season: Designers Offer the Gift of Giving Back

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Giving back: Designer Joel Baldazo brings alpine-inspired vignettes to life at this year’s Thrift the Halls.

If there’s one thing that truly captures the magic of the holidays, it’s the joy of giving back. This year, Texas Counter Fitters owners Chris Blackburn and Andrew Gilbert are embracing that spirit with extra cheer. The dynamic duo is partnering with two local nonprofits — Dwell with Dignity and After 8 to Educate — to spread goodwill through a pair of seasonal initiatives to make giving back easier than ever.

“The greatest gift we can give is sharing our time and resources with those in need,” said Chris. “It’s a reminder that the holidays are about compassion, connection, and kindness.”

Thrift the Halls

Benefiting Dwell with Dignity, December 4 – 21

The second annual Thrift the Halls kicks off today — a holiday haven for design enthusiasts seeking stylish gifts for themselves or loved ones. “We couldn’t be more excited with the incredible mix of designers who have joined together to make this pop-up possible,” said Dwell with Dignity Executive Director Teresa Charnock.

“Thrift the Halls creates a full-circle opportunity — shop for the holidays while giving back to a meaningful cause.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will directly support families escaping poverty and homelessness. ‘It’s amazing to watch them move into a fully furnished home after coming from nothing,” shared Teresa.

Dwell with Dignity event giving back
Dwell with Dignity event giving back

At the helm is designer Joel Baldazo, who brings alpine-inspired vignettes to life with a masterful mix of design styles. Standout items include photography by Jarrod Oram, an Allan Knight wall sconce, an antique Afghan door, along with an array of festive Christmas trees and décor. “Whether you like traditional or modern, white and neutrals, color, or old-world charm, there’s something for everyone.”

CandysDirt.com got a sneak peek, and trust us, it’s a wow and a win for giving back.

Both the selection and the deals are amazing. Our shopping list includes a Safavieh rug, Peacock Alley linens, a faux fur throw, and Sandra Freeman’s stunning black and white floral photography.

Dwell with Dignity event giving back
Dwell with Dignity event giving back

“I love what Dwell does for families. Homelessness can happen to anyone,” said Joel. “It’s such important work. How can we not be inspired?”

Participants include:  Jarrod Oram, Hannah Brown, Villa and House, Visual Comfort, Made Goods, Currey & Co, Allan Knight & Cearan Henley, Holiday Warehouse, Wildman Art Framing, Peacock Alley, Neiman Marcus, Arsin Rugs, Regina Andrew, Palecek and more.

Shop Wednesdays through Saturdays through December 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Dwell with Dignity’s permanent space: 1833 E. Levee Street, Dallas.


TCF Dares to Mention the Unmentionables

Benefiting After 8 to Educate, now through December 31

Every year, the population of underserved children in the United States is growing. Yet despite the effort to help with food, clothing, and shelter, one critical need remains unmet: underwear.   

Why the shortage? For hygienic purposes, underwear must be newly purchased and unworn – exactly why it’s often excluded from donations.  

After 8 to Educate’s mission to promote self-sufficiency as a pathway out of homelessness and poverty struck a chord,” said Chris. “Once we learned about the problem, we wanted to be part of the solution.

“What seems like a small necessity, plays a vital role in a child’s health, comfort, and self-esteem.”

It’s easy to donate. Simply drop off your donation of new, unworn underwear, boxers, bras, socks, and deodorant at TCF’s Richardson showroom, 909 N. Bowser Rd. Or scan the QR code above or go to the Amazon website to select from a curated assortment.

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