What used to be a 1940's Metro North train car and later a cigar shop opened its doors as KBK Designs on October 31st, 2004.  KBK Designs began with Phyllis Karlin and her daughter Annette, a GIA-certified jeweler. Over the years others joined the team which now consists of five designers as well as Phyllis herself.  In memory of her mother, Phyllis established a relationship with Support  Connection in Yorktown Heights NY, a not-for-profit organization that offers support to woman and families that are faced with breast and/or ovarian cancer. Annette designed the first fundraiser bracelet, which was made using pink and teal Swarovski crystals.  In April, 2007, KBK Designs    received Support Connection's "Spirit of Caring" Award.

Phyllis expanded her fundraising efforts in the community by contracting with the NYPD Relay For Life (The American Cancer Society), and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (the American Cancer Society’s premier event to raise awareness and dollars to fight breast cancer).  Now Phyllis also supports the Policewomen's Endowment Association as well as Hospice Care of Northern Westchester and Putnam and Buddy Walk of Yorktown.

Phyllis and her designers work on creating a wide range of jewelry for each of these important organizations.  Ron Karlin, Phyllis' husband, donates 18% of all designated jewelry sales to these worthy causes, making this a true family affair!  MasterCard has also generously agreed to donate a matching 18%, up to $5,000 per calendar year.