An alternative that is both environmentally and socially responsible, ANEW is a non-profit organization dedicated to the collection and repurposing of surplus furniture, fixtures and equipment for underprivileged communities and others in need of adequate facilities.

Tourje worked with Knoll associates Kathleen Neary, Rosa Sinnott, John Gillotti and the rest of the Knoll Los Angeles team in late 2005 to connect with interested Knoll clients and to spread the word among the industry.

As a result of these efforts, both Toyota and The Deutsch Company (two Knoll clients) have recently completed large projects with ANEW, with great results.

"The practice of liquidation is an area in need of great improvement," said Tourje. "There is an unthinkable amount of waste and dumping taking place with surplus furniture; and I've found that there is actually a great need and desire for alternatives that are eco-friendly while still being cost effective."

At the Toyota Motor Sales campus, the first project completed by ANEW earlier this year, Tourje and her team orchestrated the removal of surplus assets from the site. In this case, the furniture (about 58 tons worth) was donated to three Native American Reservations in the San Diego area for classroom and administrative needs.

More recently, ANEW matched surplus furniture from The Deutsch Company for reuse by the Long Beach Historical Society.

Tourje calls her practice "socially sustainable." ANEW not only diverts enormous amounts of furniture and equipment from landfills but also provides others in need with a greater chance to learn and to succeed.

"It's ANEW day," said Tourje. "You and your client can make a difference."

ANEW
1396 La Loma Road, Suite 100
Pasadena, CA 91105
213 943-4400