By Adam Brazeau
CORNWALL, Ontario – A fresh idea for a fundraiser is ready to make a fashion statement. The local OSPCA is aiming to raise $10,000 at an event that benefits animals in need of a permanent home.
The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry branch is hosting ‘Posing for Paws – A Charity Fashion Show & Auction.’
The Nav Centre, a world-class air traffic control training facility, will be in a fashionable state on Sat., Oct. 26, starting at 7:00 p.m.
“It’s going to be a lot of fun, there’s something for everyone. Men and women’s clothing,” said Christina Russell, OSPCA fundraising committee member and event organizer.
The fundraising initiative will be held throughout three attached large rooms, which will feature a stylish fashion show, a silent auction (with over 100 items) and a swanky cash bar area.
Singer/songwriter Tracy Lalonde will be performing, Wild Country 96.5 FM‘s Johnny Taco will make an appearance and a special guest may be in attendance.
“One reason we decided to go with a fashion show, was to highlight the businesses that do support us,” she said.
Clothing being modeled will feature the latest fashion trends of Auld Kirktown, The Squire Shop and Jewelry from Stella & Dot.
The Kinsmen Club of Cornwall is sponsoring a light lunch, and other business sponsors include Munroe Agromart Ltd., J&A Auto Body and R&D Lacelle.
“It’s a great event to support a local organization,” said Russell.
The local animal advocate is no stranger to throwing an event that brings in thousands for the OSPCA. This is her third year putting one on with shelter staff and volunteer members. The previous two had auctions as well, and raised $10K each.
“We moved the event from spring to fall, to advance revenue and attendance,” said Russell, a former St. Lawrence College student union president. “We thought it would be fun to do something different.”
Russell runs the OSPCA Facebook page, giving the animals inside more exposure to find a permanent family. Together with staff and volunteers, she posts pictures of the animals up for adoption and their various fundraising events.
“The Facebook page got more people involved and more donations, especially for events,” she said. “We get to answer a lot of questions that people may not call or stop by for.”
Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, and available at Scotiabank in Cornwall and Alexandria. Space is limited. For more information or to donate items to the silent auction, contact Russell at 613-577-2088.
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