Goodwill North Central Texas hosted Project Goodwill 2024, presented by Service Waste and Pan American Wire, on Thursday, April 4th at the Worthington Renaissance Hotel in Fort Worth. The fashion show, design competition and fundraiser gala raised more than $50,000 for the nonprofit.
In all, 16 aspiring designers from the community were tasked with designing wearable garments using $100 worth of unconventional materials from local Goodwill stores and presenting those looks in a runway show. Fashion designer and TV personality, Anthony Elle, returned as celebrity host, infusing the night with his signature charm and style. Contestants competed for top honors in design materials and method, and runway presentation and were judged by industry professionals including Senior Director of Customer Care for Kendra Scott, Lyndsay Baylor; Professor of Theatre Arts at Texas Wesleyan University, Joe Allen Brown; Plus-Size Reseller and Body-Positive Activist, Dearrine Morrow (@thedivaofcurvestx); Design Consultant, Kanani Mahelona; as well as the 2023 winner of Project Goodwill – Kate Oxley.
Third place was awarded to Ty Washington, whose innovative ensemble featured a jumpsuit and coat meticulously crafted from sheets, pillowcases and a window curtain. Emily Mitchell captured both second place and the coveted People’s Choice award with her striking creation, which incorporated tarps, dusters, and an umbrella cover. First place went to Samuel Monson whose visionary use of a yoga mat, sunshade, Christmas lights and electrical cables resulted in captivating ensemble.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming success of Project Goodwill 2024,” said Shay Gipson, Vice President of Community Engagement. “The generosity and enthusiasm of our supporters have once again demonstrated the profound impact that creative expression and community collaboration can have on transforming lives.”
All proceeds from Project Goodwill 2024 will go toward the expansion of Goodwill’s S.T.A.R.S. program. S.T.A.R.S., which stands for Skills Training Achieves Results, is a unique day program for adults with disabilities that recreates daily living scenarios through an interactive, realistic environment. Participants rotate between different places such as the apartment, general store, town square, art studio and fitness center. Each different place gives participants a chance to learn real life skills while having fun and interacting with staff and participants. The curriculum is designed to help participants overcome their disadvantages and achieve maximum independence.
source: press release
