WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The 6th Annual Red Ribbon Runway design competition and fashion show will be held on Feb. 28, 8 p.m., at the Wake Forest Biotech Place, 575 N. Patterson Ave.
AIDS Care Services will be the recipient of funds raised from the event where professional and amateur designers are challenged to create a high quality, wearable garment using 100 percent of the materials from three plain white T-shirts provided by sponsor, Hanesbrands, Inc., organizers said. Additionally, repurposed or recycled materials must also be used in the fabrication. “The design must also inspire awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate respect for those living with the disease,” organizers added.
Models will walk the runway showcasing the textile creations as local judges make their decision on who will be selected as the Best of Show and receive a prize of $250. Criteria necessary to capture the win is based upon design integrity, ingenuity and inspiration.
ACS Executive Director Jesse Duncan shared, “This event offers a genuine cause for creativity and allows the designers and models to stand proud among the attendees knowing they are making a difference for so many lives in our community.”
One designer, DeeDee Haberle, has been a participant in the competition since its inception. The 70-year-old, five-year cancer survivor who was diagnosed with Parkinston’s Disease prior to last year’s event, can still thread a needle, she says. She previously lost two friends to HIV/AIDS in the early days of the epidemic and said, “Back then we hadn’t made the strides we have today. It was pretty much a death sentence. Both friends were terminal and were isolated, rejected and misunderstood. No one should have to leave this world being misunderstood by those they love.”
Other designers who will participate include Cindy Wright, Madelyn Greco, Keith Kerney, Bryan Templeton, Jon Michael Hartwig, Misty Lockhart, Leigh Palacios, Sherri Kang, Charles Edward White, Mallory Wentzell, Mary Lea Williams and Kim Davidson.
Food, dancing, entertainment, a cash wine bar and a silent auction featuring the runway garments will round out the evening.
Proceeds go to support ACS with a number of things including medical assistance, job referrals and housing needs and more.
Tickets start at $25 and are available online. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door.
info: Diane Coe, 336-377-0116. develop@aidscareservice.org. aidscareservices.org.
I sincerely hope your event goes well and raises a lot of money. Behind you 100%.