ST. GEORGE —Members of the St. George Grange came up with the whimsical idea to have 17 local artists paint some of their vintage wooden chairs. In turn, those chairs will be auctioned off, with Zero to School being the recipient of this CHAIR-ITY fundraiser.

Community members are invited to preview the chairs in person during a CHAIR-ITY Reception on Friday, July 17, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the future home of the St. George Early Childhood & Family Center, 107 Port Clyde Road, in Tenants Harbor. The chairs will also be displayed during St. George Day, on Saturday, July 18, in the Town Hall parking lot.

Online bidding opened Wednesday, July 15, at 8 a.m., and continues through Sunday, July 19, at 8 p.m.

"These one-of-a-kind works of art represent both the talent and generosity of these artists," said a news release.

Zero to School is a community and parent designed initiative with a mission that All Children will Enter Kindergarten Healthy, Thriving and Ready to Learn! The Zero to School team includes community members, parents and local educators to ensure that the program meets the local needs of children and families.

"We meet our mission by employing universal developmental screening for all children in St. George ages 2 - 5, providing targeted early prevention and intervention, partnering with local organizations to ensure families are connected to resources and have their basic needs met, and by supporting caregivers and parents to ensure they feel confident and knowledgeable about how to support their child's healthy development," said the Zero to School team, in the news release.

The fundraiser will support the renovation of the St. George Early Childhood & Family Center, which will provide early learning and childcare for children 6 weeks to 5 years old, summer camp, after school programming and whole family support.

"CHAIR-ITY is a wonderful example of what can happen when creativity, community spirit, and a commitment to children come together," said Jessica Berry, Assistant Superintendent and Special Education Director for the St. George Municipal School District. "Every bid placed helps build a stronger future for children and families in St. George."

Auction Site: https://hglc.betterworld.org/auctions/chair-ity