Retail Home Furnishings Foundation Becomes NAHFA Subsidiary
The foundation's board adopted amended bylaws in September 2026, placing it under the North American Home Furnishings Association.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Home — General
The Retail Home Furnishings Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, became a subsidiary of the North American Home Furnishings Association after its board adopted amended bylaws in September 2026. The association also appointed a new foundation board of directors.
Why it matters
The change sets a new governance structure for the foundation, which has supported the home furnishings industry since its founding in 1980. Updates on the foundation's priorities are expected as the new board's plans take shape.
The foundation was founded in 1980 in Washington, D.C., as the Home Furnishings Research and Education Foundation and renamed in 1989. Its 2015 allocation of $50,000 over three years to NAHFA funded young professional sponsorships, but the source provides no current financial figures.
The players
North American Home Furnishings Association
The trade association for the home furnishings industry, which now oversees the Retail Home Furnishings Foundation as its subsidiary.
Retail Home Furnishings Foundation
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1980 that supports the home furnishings retail sector.
The details
The RHFF Board of Directors adopted amended bylaws making the foundation a subsidiary of NAHFA, and the NAHFA Board appointed a new RHFF Board of Directors. Evan Martin was named administrator, Bailee Nebeker board chair, Howard Haimsohn vice chair and Jake Freedman treasurer.
Timeline
1980: Foundation founded in Washington, D.C. as the Home Furnishings Research and Education Foundation.
1989: Foundation renamed the Retail Home Furnishings Foundation.
2015: $50,000 allocated to NAHFA over three years to sponsor young professionals.
September 2026: Amended bylaws adopted and new board appointed.
Industry Dynamics
The foundation's move from standalone 501(c)(3) status to a subsidiary of a trade association reflects how industry groups are consolidating their charitable arms. The change places the foundation's future programs within the association's broader governance.
Consumers who rely on the foundation's industry programs may see its work continue under new leadership. The practical effect on products and retail availability is not addressed in the source.
The takeaway
Industry organizations are restructuring their charitable foundations under larger associations, which can shape the priorities those foundations pursue. Readers interested in the sector can track updates as the new board sets its direction.
Further reading
Explore more in Home — General for related home furnishings industry coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Woodworking Network.
