Local high school students model in philanthropic fashion show
The Fashion for Compassion show at the Boulder Theater on Saturday, April 14 promises to be a fashion-forward event. The event, organized by local high school students, will start at 12:30 p.m., and the proceeds support the Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Non-Violence located in Boulder.
Serving the Boulder community since 1979, SPAN provides emergency services for women and children experiencing domestic violence. The emergency shelter helps 300 women and children each year and the outreach program supports over 1,500 yearly.
Anne Tapp, executive director at SPAN, is excited about the collaboration between Fashion for Compassion and SPAN.
“We rely on the community to provide this service. It helps us become more accessible and visible,” Tapp said.
The proceeds from the benefit will go directly to operating costs of SPAN.
Julia Sallo, a Fairview High School senior, started the Fashion for Compassion show last year because she wanted to combine a passion for fashion with a community event.
“I had done smaller fundraisers with the Safehouse, but wanted to do something big,” Sallo said.
Raising $4,000 for SPAN last year encouraged her to put on the show again. This year’s show features 65 models from various local high schools. They will be modeling over 100 different outfits. Sallo expects 200-500 people to attend on Saturday. Proceeds come from ticket sales and a silent auction.
“The money will go to wherever funding gaps. Every dollar goes to vital services, including education programs and outreach to folks,” Tapp said.
Sixteen local retailers donated the clothing showcased in the event. Retailers include Common Era, Besos and Billabong, among others.
Besos, a new boutique on the west-end of Pearl Street, opened in mid-November. The store donated eight outfits to the show.
“The high school girls picked hip, forward fashions. It should be a good show with funky, contemporary stuff,” said Lyn Thorton, assistant manager at Besos.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and children. A silent auction will feature 75 items donated by the local retailers.
Contact Campus Press staff writer Kathleen Straney at kathleen.straney@thecampuspress.com.
