At Valley Youth House, we are always grateful for the support we receive from community members who go above and beyond to help young people in need. One such dedicated group is the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown, who, through the Bucks County Designer House & Gardens event, has directed funds to benefit Valley Youth House.

What is the Bucks County Designer House & Gardens?

Each year, the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown (VIA) selects a stunning home in the community to transform. The home may either be lived in or on the market, and once chosen, the homeowner temporarily vacates the property while designers and committees work their magic. The house is fully redesigned with luxurious, high-end furnishings, which are later available for sale during the event.

The VIA meticulously organizes the event, with committees dedicated to landscaping, vendor selection, and home design, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees and maximum impact for the chosen nonprofit. The event is more than just a showcase of interior design—it is a dynamic fundraiser that directly benefits several community organizations, including Valley Youth House.

A Night of Giving and Glamour

During the Designer House event, guests are welcomed into the beautifully transformed home  over several weeks featuring delicious food, drinks, and exclusive boutique shopping experiences. The boutiques set up inside the home donate a percentage of their earnings from the night to the VIA, helping to increase the event’s philanthropic reach.

Funds for the selected nonprofit are raised through multiple streams, including:

• Ticket sales
• Sponsorships
• An Empty House Tour event
• The highly anticipated Kick-Off Gala
• Boutique revenue shares
• Designer furniture sales
• On-site cafes

All proceeds, after covering event expenses fund various charitable works throughout Bucks County. For the past 8 years, we were honored that Valley Youth House was selected as a beneficiary.

The Impact on Valley Youth House

Thanks to the VIA, the Bucks County Designer House fundraiser has supported Valley Youth House’s Bucks Shelter and Street Outreach program. Their generous donations provide housing, resources, and vital support to youth experiencing homelessness in the region.

Beyond financial contributions, the VIA also amplifies awareness for the nonprofit recipients by sharing press releases, posting on social media, distributing thank-you ads, and detailing how proceeds were allocated. This broad visibility helps shine a light on Valley Youth House’s mission and impact, inspiring others to contribute to the cause.

Advice for Future Fundraisers

For those considering hosting a fundraiser for a nonprofit, the VIA offers these words of wisdom:

• Do your research – Look into similar events and fundraising models to understand the landscape.
• Know your market – Identify what works in your community and tailor your event accordingly.
• Don’t be afraid! – Fundraising is a challenging but rewarding endeavor, and with the right plan, it is absolutely achievable.
• Embrace the connections – Fundraisers bring people together and often result in lasting community relationships.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown, in particular Pat Urban for sitting down with us to share more about this fundraiser, and everyone involved in the Bucks County Designer House & Gardens for their generosity and dedication to supporting youth in need. If you or your organization are interested in hosting a fundraiser for Valley Youth House, we’d love to hear from you!