During the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in New Orleans last week, the Storage Business Owners Alliance (SBOA) and Supply Source One hosted a client reception at the House of Blues music venue. The event raised $1,000 for Louisianas St. Bernard Project, a local volunteer organization that has helped to rebuild more than 200 homes since the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.

On the eve of Sept. 30, 225 reception attendees enjoyed drinks and dinner. Ian Burnstein, CEO of SBOA, and Rob Vodraska, national account manager of Supply Source One, agreed to contribute $4 for each person who gathered at the event. 

The SBOA enables small to mid-sized self-storage operations to enjoy the benefits of bulk buying power. The group has grown to include more than 1,000 member facilities and increased its vendor connections to 35. Members pay $99 per year to take advantage of savings on items such as packing and moving supplies, marketing services, credit card processing services and more.

Supply Source One, a vendor member of the SBOA, is a provider of self-storage retail product including locks, boxes, bubble wrap and more. 

The St. Bernard Project creates housing opportunities so Hurricane Katrina survivors can return to their homes and communities. The nonprofit, community-based organization carries out its mission through three primary programs: the Rebuilding Program, Center for Wellness and Mental Health and the Opportunity Housing Program. The organization was launched in March 2006 by Zack Rosenburg and Liz McCartney.