There are good causes in the world…..and there are exceptional causes in the world: Even in the exceptional category, the Children’s Advocacy Center stands as second to none.
With that said, I am honored to be able to reveal interior designer, Dawn D. Totty’s “mystery makeover” of the CAC, which is located in Jasper, TN.
The facility had the award-winning designer’s attention, as soon as she learned of it.
“In a nutshell, I found out about this facility and it really weighed on my heart to elevate and beautify the space, so that it would be much more child friendly and welcoming. I set up a meeting with Gene Hargis (Chief Detective of Marion Co.). I went in for our meeting, offered to waive my service fees and to do my own fundraising. He jumped at the opportunity,” reflected Totty.
When she entered the center, she observed dark gray outdoor carpet from wall to wall, along with brown walls. There were multiple fluorescent light fixtures and four large conference tables in the main area. Her wheels were already turning.
As this project is so near and dear to her heart, Totty spent five months doing exactly as she said she would do. Through her own fundraising efforts, she was able to raise $24,000 for the project. With services combined, it was $50,000 redesign.
She strived to create a center that would be both comforting and uplifting, as those who enter need a safe place of healing. Time and time again, it was confirmed that God had orchestrated the project.
Dawn was also able to recruit some fantastic artists, donors and general helpers to make her vision come to life. Day after day, the center continued to transform into a brighter, friendlier, more calming space.
Through a generous variety of donations, Dawn’s design skills, and other helping hands, the vision has been achieved.
“Designing and being project manager for the CAC has taught me a multitude of lessons – particularly lessons in human nature. I’ve learned that generally people are kind and generous. When people heard about these hurting children, they were happy to assist me in so many ways – they volunteered their time and monetary donations,” she continued.
After five months of hard work, Dawn revealed the makeover to the CAC staff. As one might guess, they were blown away.
Now, Dawn and the CAC crew look forward to the big grand opening event which will take place at the Center on Friday, May 29.
Even as she goes forward and returns to her usual work, the CAC project will remain in her heart and mind.
“Everyone was a child once. Some have had a beautiful, childhood experience, but others have not. My main objective is in some small way to restore some joy for these sweet children – joy that has been lost through abuse. Creating a calm and happy healing environment is a good place to start. This is the biggest and most important project I’ve ever completed in my career since the day I started working at 16 years old. Designing the CAC will forever be in my heart.” concludes Dawn.
About the Children’s Advocacy Center: The CAC which has been in local operation for 4 years serves severely abused children, both male and female, from the ages of 2-18. Children from Jasper, as well as surrounding Middle TN areas come to the non-profit center as a safe place for counseling and healing. It is comprised of several board members, along with Gina Presto (President), Gene Hargis (Chief Detective of Marion Co.) and Kathie Tierney (Jasper Chamber of Commerce President), leading the organization.
************************************************************************
About Dawn D. Totty of Dawn D. Totty Designs:
Dawn D. Totty is an innovative Interior Designer focused on service, customization, enhancing property value and affordably designing spaces to reach their full potential. Whether a home or business renovation, she has been successfully meeting individual needs and bringing personal visions to life, everywhere she goes. As a self-described “problem solver,” Totty consistently saves her clients time and money, while reflecting their personal styles at affordable rates. With a background which began in the New York Fashion industry, Totty has been designing people, places and spaces for 23 years.
In the past year, Dawn’s designs have been featured in over 50 publications, including House Beautiful, Realtor.com, Reader’s Digest, City Scope, Chatter (Times Free Press), Stir Magazine (Sherwin Williams) Vie Magazine, American Farmhouse, and Contemporary Stone + Tile DESIGN. Most recently, Dawn was named the “Best Interior Designer” in Chattanooga’s 2019 “Best of the best” awards.
To keep up with Dawn D. Totty of Dawn D. Totty Designs, “like” her Facebook page and follow her on Instagram.
