Jabs saluted for MDA, Easter Seals charity work
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, May 26, 2003
Denver — American Furniture Warehouse's chief executive officer, Jake Jabs, has received a Humanitarian Award in honor of his 25-plus years of involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Assn.
Jabs has earned the title of national vice president of the MDA and has donated well over $1 million to the charity.
"Whether it's helping fund research for muscle disease, guiding young entrepreneurs or strengthening Colorado's economy with the jobs he provides, his dedication to helping others is an inspiration," said Colorado Gov. Bill Owens.
American holds a sale over the Labor Day weekend to benefit MDA, donating a portion of gross sales. The retailer has a similar four-day event in April to benefit Easter Seals, and this year donated $70,000 to an Easter Seals Child Development Camp outside Denver. The camp's dining hall is named "Jake's Place" in honor of Jabs.
"Jake has definitely made a difference in the lives of so many that we serve," said Shirley Barenberg, vice president of Easter Seals. "(The contribution) could not have come at a better time since the economy isn't doing real well right now and donations are down."
At an MDA dinner, Jabs served as an auctioneer for the event and raised more than $65,000.
