Before stepping back into the classroom this year, children from Mills Home in Thomasville stepped into the spotlight for the annual fashion show Hope in Style on August 26.
Community friends, including event lead sponsors Belk and Vanguard Ministries, joined together to raise funds for the boys’ and girls’ daily care and provide them the new back-to-school outfits they modeled at the event.
“I can’t tell you how much fun it is for our store employees to do this for the children,” said Laura Danclovic, manager of Belk at Friendly Center in Greensboro. “It’s such a privilege.”
In the days prior to the event, Danclovic invited the children to shop for new clothes with the help of volunteers. Belk provided the outfits free of charge.
Ciara picked out new jeans, boots and a stylish kimono topper. As much as she enjoyed shopping, the relationships she built with those who helped her meant even more.
“These women take time out of their day to shop with us and help us look good,” explained Ciara. “They ask you about school, what grade you’re in, what styles you like – they really want to get to know you.”
Thrivent Financial, a national not-for-profit Christian financial service provider with offices in Greensboro, completed the ensembles by taking the children shoe shopping. The shopping team included Gary Everhart, who serves as a Thrivent financial representative, and his wife, Carrie, who serves on the Hope in Style planning committee.
“After attending Hope in Style consecutive years and being asked if I would serve on the planning committee, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to get involved with these incredible kids,” said Carrie Everhart. “It’s a true blessing to see God’s work being fulfilled. Witnessing it from behind the scenes makes the experience all the more rewarding.”
“We’ve gotten to know them over the past few years,” Ciara said of the Everharts. “They are super nice and great to talk to. If you find the right shoes to go with your new outfit, they want you to have them.”
Hope in Style is directed by Karen Slate. Slate serves as Baptist Children’s Homes’ Director of Development, Central Area. The event took place at the Greensboro Country Club and was emceed this year by WXII 12 News Chief Meteorologist Lanie Pope. Entertainment was provided by High Point musicians Blue Ridge James and pianist Randy Stewart. Stewart serves as pastor of Mills Home Baptist Church.
To learn more about Hope in Style visit www.hopeinstyle.org.