Judson Center is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $20,000 matching grant as part of the Art Van Million Dollar Charity Challenge. Beginning August 1, 2009, every dollar you donate to Judson Center will leverage a matching 50 cents to Judson Center's Hope Begins Here Campaign. Judson Center received the award at a reception held by Art Van Furniture to recognize Judson Center's important work in the community.

In honor of its 50th anniversary, Art Van Furniture is supporting Michigan-based children, health and human services programs by providing $1 million to fund 50 grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Over 550 organizations applied to receive these grants.

In an effort to encourage philanthropic giving and community support, Art Van Furniture designed the grants as challenge grants in order to encourage others to donate and maximize fundraising opportunities. The participating organizations are Michigan-based 501(c)3 non-profits who focus on children, health and human services programs.

"We are honored to be selected for this grant by Art Van Furniture, and our hope is that this grant will be matched by other donations from our local community," stated Donna Belgan, VP of Resource Development for Judson Center. "In these economic times, Art Van is a shining example of leadership and support for our community. Their financial support is just one part of their assistance to us; their friendship, recognition and encouragement is also a great help to all our volunteers and other donors."

"The Art Van Million Dollar Charity Challenge benefits 50 remarkable and deserving organizations to help them continue their outstanding work and improve the lives of people across our state," said Art Van Elslander, Chairman and Founder of Art Van Furniture.