World of Decor — a fine furnishing retailer and a full-service auction house — has recently partnered with Kids Against Hunger, an international, nonprofit food relief program.

World of Decor has pledged to help supply 1 million meals throughout 2010. To achieve that goal, the Orlando-based company is hosting a series of auctions called "A Celebration of Life" this fall and into early next year. A portion of all sales will support the company's "One Million Meals" campaign.

The auctions will also feature live performances by R&B group The Commodores. Registered bidders and the general public from each of the six market cities are welcome to attend the catered concerts. These locations include Dallas and Austin, Texas; Anaheim, Calif.; and Deerfield and West Palm Beach, Fla. An auction during the recent High Point Market kicked off the series.

Kids Against Hunger works through volunteers to package the ingredients for soy/rice casserole-style meals specifically formulated for malnourished and starving children.

George Eouse, World of Decor president and CEO, said the motivation to take action with Kids Against Hunger was directly influenced by the current economic climate.

"This recession has taught all of us a valuable lesson about business," Eouse said. "We recognize that good businesses should not be judged by their balance sheets and revenue alone, but by their ability to make a difference in people's lives — whether it's neighbors right here at home or the needy around the world. That's why we encourage our employees, customers, industry professionals and wholesale partners to join this worthy cause. When they purchase our product, they are also feeding hope to a child."

Founded in 1987 by Minnesota businessman Richard Proudfit, Kids Against Hunger has shipped more than 100 million servings of their nutrient-rich food to destitute children in 60 countries. According to the United Nations, one child dies every six seconds from hunger-related causes.

"We are very excited about building our relationship with World of Decor and anticipate great outcomes from their One Million Meals initiative. With their commitment to our mission, we are able to further reduce hunger and improve the quality of life for kids," said Proudfit. "Together, we create a powerful example of how we positively impact lives. The strong alliance we share will enable more children to have a stronger, healthier future."

Upcoming auction dates are: Saturday, Nov. 28: Dallas; Sunday, Dec. 5: Anaheim, Calif.; Sunday, Dec. 27: Deerfield, Fla.; Jan. 1: West Palm Beach, Fla.; Jan. 16: Austin, Texas.