By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
A cornerstone of the Oliver and area community, the Painted Chair, is set to slide into the history books as the key duo behind the social enterprise that has provided support and services to adults and children with special needs, is retiring.
In a post to social media, Tara and Ron Hovanes, have thanked the community for all the “support, love and generosity” shown over the course of nearly 14 years. The Painted Chair was set up to provide those with developmental disabilities an opportunity to create something they can sell and keep the money for.
The organization received funds through Community Living BC to act as a local service provider.
Over the years the organization has re-purposed thousands of pieces of furniture all donated with 100 per cent of the sales going to the people working at the Painted Chair, whether it be literally painting a chair, working the sales counter, or helping pick up donated furniture which will be refurbished and sold.
In the social media post, Tara said: “Ron and I are retiring, we have enjoyed over 40 years in the business of taking care of people and we are looking forward to a more relaxed life with lots of gardening, camping, travel and time with our family.” Ron Hovanes was formerly the mayor of Oliver.
The duo said that Penticton-based OneSky Community Resources was the successful candidate for the continued provision of service for the Painted Chair’s participants. They will take over the day program on April 1, in a new location they added.
The Hovanes’ urge people to come by the shop as “everything has to go” from the warehouse over the next few weeks.
“Once again, thank you so much for the love, support and friendship. Oliver is truly a special place!”.
The Painted Chair is located at 5857 Sawmill Road in Oliver and can be reached at (250) 498-3003 or [email protected] .
