Fashion Show benefits Children’s of AL

Published 3:00 am Saturday, March 14, 2015

Chelsey Holland may never have existed if her mother did not survive the car accident that happened when she was one year old.

“A drunk driver hit the back of her car, and it exploded,” Holland said.

Holland’s mother had burns covering around 75 percent of her body and spent approximately eight months in Children’s Hospital.

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When Holland heard her mother’s story, she could not help but want to support the hospital that saved her mother’s life.

In 2013, Holland decided to create a fashion show that would raise money to benefit Children’s Hospital.

“I wanted to find a way to raise money without making myself uncomfortable,” she said. “I love clothing and thrift shopping, so I decided to host a fashion show.”

This is the third annual Runway of Hope, and Holland plans to continue to host the event as a long as she can.

Stores from Dothan, Montgomery, Brundidge and Troy donate their clothing to be used in the show. Holland said this year, the audience can expect to see outfits from Maurice’s, TJ Maxx, as well as local boutiques.

“I try to do more high fashion,” Holland said. “I try not to make it too big, but I want to make it something anyone can wear everyday.”

Angie Sherrill with Children’s helps Holland coordinate the event.

This year, the fashion show will include kids and around 40 models. Most of the models come from Troy University. Each model is chosen after an audition with Holland.

The Runway of Hope has raised around $4,000 each year, but this year, Holland hopes to more than double that amount and raise $10,000.

This year’s event will take place on March 21 at 6 p.m. at the ballroom in the Trojan Center at Troy University. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. The Prancing Peacocks from Midland City and DJ Hendock will provide entertainment.