What’s a Second Runway, you ask? It’s the name given to a fashion show sponsored by the Goodwill of Monocacy Valley in Frederick County, Md.
Why should I care, you ask? Care because the money raised from donations, auctions and sales of items fund the Goodwill’s service to young people in desperate need in the area. This isn’t a government tax and spend program, it’s private donations made by the community for the good of that same community.
What happens at Second Runway? After months of preparation with Leigh Adams of Goodwill, planning and choosing great clothing and accessories from those donated to Goodwill, the staff, models and other volunteers put on a fashion show to demonstrate the great values available to everybody. There is food and drink and awards and shopping and just an overall fantastic time, full of laughter, good cheer and yes, good will. And there’s shopping. Too cool!
To quote the Sponsorship message:
“Dear Goodwill Supporter,
Four years ago, Goodwill Industries® of Monocacy Valley debuted a new fundraising event: SECOND RUNWAY. It began as a Fashion Show to raise awareness of the high quality, low cost shopping available in local Goodwill® stores. Today, SECOND RUNWAY has become Goodwill’s premier fundraising event, increasing awareness of Goodwill’s mission, and raising thousands to help fund training and employment programs for youth with developmental disabilities, who are transitioning into the workplace.”
If you’re starting over after a separation or divorce, if recent times have been difficult, if you need clothing for your new job after a tough stretch, or if you just are a really thrifty shopper, no matter. You can find what you need and want at your local Goodwill. Demonstrating that effectively is one byproduct of Second Runway. Interaction with other like minded people is another byproduct. My thanks and appreciation to Whitney Hahn, Sam Levitan, Megan Heyer, Matt Hayden and Jamie Grove who gave of their time and talents when I asked. Thanks also to Garth Phoebus, who brought me on board over a year ago. And yes, we worked on this that long. There are dozens more who contributed, like Lori Tarauso, Richard Belles and tons more whose names aren’t known to me, or heaven forbid, I’ve overlooked. For that I apologize!
What you see here is a mere taste. Have a look through the photos in the gallery and enjoy, starting with a few rehearsal shots and progressing through the fashion show and a number of candids! Next year it’ll be held on Friday Nov.6, 2015. Mark your calendar now, because you really don’t want to miss out!
Fashion Show Photographs
Jeff Behm Photography is an advertising and commercial service with 31 years experience, serving Maryland, Pennsylvania, northern Virginia and the greater Washington DC area. Call 724-730-8513 when only the best will do.
