Chairs for YOMA Auction Celebrates Community Spirit and Creativity in Manotick

By Kelly Belair, Manotick BIA

The Chairs for YOMA auction, organized by Manotick Home Hardware in partnership with the Youth of Manotick Association (YOMA), is in full swing for its second year with over 20 beautifully painted Adirondack chairs up for auction. This year’s fundraiser has seen an outstanding participation from local businesses and community groups, each contributing creatively designed chairs that reflect the charm and history of Manotick.

We’re thrilled by the number of local businesses who donated their time and earnings to purchase and paint a chair. Supporting these businesses not only shows appreciation for their creativity but also strengthens our community bonds. In addition to organizing the fundraiser, Manotick Home Hardware has painted four chairs! You can see them in person at their store.

692 Coffee & Bar’s chair, titled “Good Vibes,” pays homage to Manotick’s past as Lindsay & McCaffrey General Merchants in the 1960s. Painted by Bismah Nav, one of their dedicated employees, this chair not only adds a personal touch but also showcases the artistic talent within our community.

Salvaged on Mill St. presents “Flower Barn Quilt,” a chair adorned with a barn quilt design, making it not only a functional piece but also a decorative artwork which includes a matching barn quilt!

“The Magic Cauldron,” created by Enchanted Chamber and painted by Marie Lamont, features intricate witchcraft essentials, adding a touch of mystique to the auction.

The Manotick BIA contributes a unique set titled “Watson’s Mill Part 1 & Part 2,” each chair featuring one half of the historical Watson’s Mill, painted by local artist Kirsty Topps. These chairs celebrate Manotick’s economic heritage, which began with its first business – the mill!

Beyond business owners’ contributions, Chairs for YOMA has highlighted the creative talent in our village. Black Forest Tattoo Company’s chair was painted by owner and tattoo artist Alina Sauve. Several businesses partnered with local artists through the Manotick Art Association, where artists generously donated their time to help create beautiful pieces for the auction. This collaboration showcases our community’s artistic diversity and strengthens ties between local businesses and creative talents.

Leeanne Van der Burgt, President of YOMA, and Adam McCosham, owner of Manotick Home Hardware, have worked hard to make this year’s auction such a success. Adam has rallied the businesses to participate, getting 8 additional chairs for this year’s auction. You can visit the chairs in person at their business’s storefront or scan the QR code included in this article. This collaborative effort between Manotick Home Hardware and YOMA exemplifies their dedicated partnership in fostering community spirit through initiatives like Chairs for YOMA.

Emily Gray, from Manotick Home Hardware’s paint department, has played a crucial role in ensuring the durability and aesthetic appeal of each chair. Her expertise underscores the commitment of local businesses to quality craftsmanship and community support.

As the auction continues online throughout July, residents and supporters are urged to visit the auction website or scan the QR code included in this article to view and bid on these unique chairs. Every bid contributes to YOMA’s mission to empower local youth through educational and recreational programs.

For more information on participating in the Chairs for YOMA auction and supporting Manotick’s youth, visit https://www.32auctions.com/yomacharisforcharity?r=1&t=all.