Community Builders HDC, Romero Britto and Steinway Piano Co. Work Together to Raise Thousands of Dollars for Katrina-Battered Dillard University

Miami, FL (Community Builders HDC) — CBHDC is auctioning a Steinway & Sons piano on eBay, painted by renowned international Pop artist Romero Britto and signed by celebrities from Colin Farrell to Common, to the highest bidder. One hundred percent of proceeds from the auction will be distributed to Dillard University.

Many Dillard University buildings were severely damaged during Hurricane Katrina, leading to a shut-down of the school and leaving many of its students stranded. CBHDC, a leading Miami cultural awareness and philanthropic organization, is extending its support to help save one of its "Sister City’s" cultural assets: Dillard University. Dillard is a key component of the economy of the state of Louisiana and a global cultural resource. CBHDC hopes to harness cultural and business resources to aid Dillard and, in the process, preserve the renowned "Creole Culture of Louisiana" and the university's surrounding Gentilly community.

Historically, New Orleans was the traditional melting pot of cultures that Miami has currently become. These revitalization and preservation efforts will lead to a culturally driven sustainable community and economic development that attracts business and housing in underserved communities.

CBHDC is doing all it can to not only assist Dillard but to also help stimulate the economy of New Orleans, including encouraging tourists from South Florida to consider making New Orleans their next vacation destination. Further, as CBHDC establishes a partnership with Dillard University to revitalize its campus and restore and preserve New Orleans' cultural industry, it will create the necessary synergy and community-based relationships needed to get this amazing city back on its feet.

To learn more about the eBay auction or to place a bid, visit: MissionFish: Spotlight on a Cause - Education or www.ebay.com/miamivice

The auction runs through August 23rd. As the one year anniversary of the Katrina tragedy nears, CBHDC, Romero Britto and other auction partners consider this a fitting and timely opportunity to honor those affected by the hurricane, which devastated parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida and Alabama on Aug. 29, 2005.

###