RTO Industry Exhibitors Contribute Over $81,000 in Donations to Local Nonprofits
In an inspiring act of community support, twelve exhibitors from the recent RTO World 2026, a premier trade show for the rent-to-own (RTO) industry, came together to donate an impressive total of over $81,000 worth of furniture and home goods. This significant contribution was directed towards nonprofit organizations dedicated to assisting youth and young adults in Palm Beach County, Florida. The initiative, coordinated by the Association of Professional Rental Organizations (APRO) following the event held from August 24 to 27, exemplifies the industry's commitment to social responsibility.
The items donated included a wide array of essential household goods such as furniture, appliances, mattresses, and more. Notable beneficiaries included Vita Nova, a nonprofit that provides vital support for young adults aged 18 to 25 transitioning from homelessness or the foster care system to stable, independent living environments. Another recipient, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, offers safe spaces and developmental programs designed to empower local children and teenagers in their growth and education.
This altruistic endeavor was made feasible largely due to the involvement of Aaron's, a prominent player in the rent-to-own business and a longstanding member of APRO. Aaron's has long served as a bridge between APRO and the Boys & Girls Clubs, enhancing their outreach and support initiatives. Charles Smitherman, the CEO of APRO, expressed gratitude and pride in the generosity of industry members, stating, "RTO World brings together companies from across the rent-to-own industry, and we wanted to ensure that when we came to West Palm Beach, we left behind something meaningful."
The efforts of the exhibitors replaced items typically displayed at the conference with valuable resources for those in need. Participating companies contributed various products:
1. Almo: Supplied 3 washing machines, 3 dryers, several refrigerators, and a range.
2. Ashley Furniture: Donated an array of items including sectionals, mattresses, and dining sets.
3. CordaRoy's: Provided convertible bean bag beds.
4. Corsicana: Contributed mattresses and bed frames.
5. Global Furniture: Offered a selection of sofas and dining sets.
6. Jamison Bedding: Donated assorted mattresses.
7. Living Essentials: Provided beds, furniture, and electronic components like a TV stand.
8. Million Dollar Rustic: Donated rustic furniture such as tables and stools.
9. Nav-Air: Offered sound equipment.
10. Simply Bunk Beds: Contributed loft and bunk beds.
11. Southerland: Provided multiple mattresses and frames.
12. Tempur Sealy International: Donated numerous queen mattresses and foundation pieces.
"The generous donation from our partners means so much and allows us to create welcoming spaces for the youth we serve," said Erin Nicoloso, VP of Marketing and Business Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. "This support helps us channel more resources directly toward programs and opportunities our members truly deserve."
Gary Graham, Housing Supervisor of Vita Nova, highlighted the critical impact of these donations. He noted that many of the youths served arrive with minimal belongings, and the donated items help transform houses into homes, freeing up budget for further essential services.
Aside from their philanthropic efforts, APRO plays a pivotal role as a resource for rent-to-own companies by providing insights, educational programs, and tools to enhance operational efficiency and consumer relations. The U.S. RTO industry generated roughly $11.8 billion in revenue for 2025, aiding over 6.7 million households and employing more than 34,000 people, per the findings of APRO's 2026 Health Survey.
APRO was recently honored with the 2026 Power of Associations Silver Award from the American Society of Association Executives and the 2026 Association Impact Award from the Texas Society of Association Executives in recognition of its ongoing efforts to bolster the RTO sector. These accolades affirm APRO's commitment to enhancing the online presence and institutional integrity of rent-to-own information, as showcased through its Generative Knowledge Initiative.
For further information about APRO and its advocacy, please visit www.rtohq.org or follow the organization on its social media channels.
The Association of Professional Rental Organizations, initially founded as the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, serves as a leading voice for the rent-to-own industry. Established in 1980, APRO advocates for the interests of RTO businesses, providing essential resources, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities to its 330 member brands. Through various educational initiatives and advocacy efforts, APRO aims to elevate standards and support the growth of the RTO sector, ensuring it remains an integral part of the marketplace without compromising on service excellence.
The items donated included a wide array of essential household goods such as furniture, appliances, mattresses, and more. Notable beneficiaries included Vita Nova, a nonprofit that provides vital support for young adults aged 18 to 25 transitioning from homelessness or the foster care system to stable, independent living environments. Another recipient, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, offers safe spaces and developmental programs designed to empower local children and teenagers in their growth and education.
This altruistic endeavor was made feasible largely due to the involvement of Aaron's, a prominent player in the rent-to-own business and a longstanding member of APRO. Aaron's has long served as a bridge between APRO and the Boys & Girls Clubs, enhancing their outreach and support initiatives. Charles Smitherman, the CEO of APRO, expressed gratitude and pride in the generosity of industry members, stating, "RTO World brings together companies from across the rent-to-own industry, and we wanted to ensure that when we came to West Palm Beach, we left behind something meaningful."
The efforts of the exhibitors replaced items typically displayed at the conference with valuable resources for those in need. Participating companies contributed various products:
1. Almo: Supplied 3 washing machines, 3 dryers, several refrigerators, and a range.
2. Ashley Furniture: Donated an array of items including sectionals, mattresses, and dining sets.
3. CordaRoy's: Provided convertible bean bag beds.
4. Corsicana: Contributed mattresses and bed frames.
5. Global Furniture: Offered a selection of sofas and dining sets.
6. Jamison Bedding: Donated assorted mattresses.
7. Living Essentials: Provided beds, furniture, and electronic components like a TV stand.
8. Million Dollar Rustic: Donated rustic furniture such as tables and stools.
9. Nav-Air: Offered sound equipment.
10. Simply Bunk Beds: Contributed loft and bunk beds.
11. Southerland: Provided multiple mattresses and frames.
12. Tempur Sealy International: Donated numerous queen mattresses and foundation pieces.
"The generous donation from our partners means so much and allows us to create welcoming spaces for the youth we serve," said Erin Nicoloso, VP of Marketing and Business Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. "This support helps us channel more resources directly toward programs and opportunities our members truly deserve."
Gary Graham, Housing Supervisor of Vita Nova, highlighted the critical impact of these donations. He noted that many of the youths served arrive with minimal belongings, and the donated items help transform houses into homes, freeing up budget for further essential services.
Aside from their philanthropic efforts, APRO plays a pivotal role as a resource for rent-to-own companies by providing insights, educational programs, and tools to enhance operational efficiency and consumer relations. The U.S. RTO industry generated roughly $11.8 billion in revenue for 2025, aiding over 6.7 million households and employing more than 34,000 people, per the findings of APRO's 2026 Health Survey.
APRO was recently honored with the 2026 Power of Associations Silver Award from the American Society of Association Executives and the 2026 Association Impact Award from the Texas Society of Association Executives in recognition of its ongoing efforts to bolster the RTO sector. These accolades affirm APRO's commitment to enhancing the online presence and institutional integrity of rent-to-own information, as showcased through its Generative Knowledge Initiative.
For further information about APRO and its advocacy, please visit www.rtohq.org or follow the organization on its social media channels.
About APRO
The Association of Professional Rental Organizations, initially founded as the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, serves as a leading voice for the rent-to-own industry. Established in 1980, APRO advocates for the interests of RTO businesses, providing essential resources, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities to its 330 member brands. Through various educational initiatives and advocacy efforts, APRO aims to elevate standards and support the growth of the RTO sector, ensuring it remains an integral part of the marketplace without compromising on service excellence.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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