A small organization that helps wounded and ill service members will be the recipient of the money raised in the annual Benefit Fashion Show on March 7.
The Fisher House is a “home away from home” for families of patients receiving medical care. The homes are located within walking distance of the treatment facility and have transportation available. The Foundation donates about 99 percent of its profits to those it serves.
“This year, we wanted to do something a little different and donate to an organization that isn’t super big or well-heard of,” participating senior Megan Marshall said.
Head commissioner senior Uma Kumar said the charities chosen in the past have usually been large organizations and the school’s donation usually got lost in the large sums of money that they received.
Funds from tickets and a silent auction will be donated to the foundation. Some stores, such as David’s Bridal, Tuxedo Wearhouse and Kitsch Couture, sponsor the show by donating clothes that the models can advertise. Others donate small items for the gift baskets available at the auction. The event is also open to donations from the community.
Kumar believes the Benefit Fashion Show is a worthwhile experience because members connect while modeling for a cause.
“I’ve done Benefit for all four years of high school and I think it’s a really fun way to help give back to our community,” she said. “Unlike other fundraisers, you can show up and have a good time without having to think about how much you have to raise.”
To join the show, students had to sign up on an online form where they chose their top three theme choices. Some of the themes include First Date, Prom, and Bollywood. One dress rehearsal is held before the show, which takes place in the large gym. Approximately 200 students from all grades will model.
According to Kumar, commissioners hope the show will repeat its success of past years.
“Last year we raised about $7,000 and were happy with that number, so we want to emulate that same success this year,” she said.