$272,000 Raised for HOPE: A Magical Night on the Catwalk
Kendall's Catwalk for a Cause was nothing short of unforgettable - an evening filled with hope, transformation and the powerful reminder that beauty can rise from ashes. Together, we raised $272,000, enough to furnish 272 homes! The energy in the room was unmatched and it was a night when compassion, creativity and community came together in perfect harmony. There was truly magic in the air.
A Journey From the Woods to Home
The evening began with guests experiencing an immersive and vivid portrayal of one recipient's story. They met Anthony, a young man whose family of five once lived in their car in the woods. Guests walked through three powerful scenes of his journey: first, the car where survival was the only goal; then, temporary shelter in a modest hotel room made possible by a local angel, Ranae Staley; and finally, the furnished home where Anthony and his family now live - a tangible picture of restoration and hope.
Anthony became the heart of the evening, sharing his story firsthand, from barely surviving to now thriving. His words reminded us all why Furnish Hope exists: to meet people in hard places and help them rebuild their lives with dignity and warmth.
Modeling More Than Fashion - Modeling Hope
Our incredible community models - our Ambassadors of Hope - carried that same light of hope as they took to the runway, celebrating the $76,000 they raised together for our mission. Their enthusiasm was contagious! Long-time Furnish Hope volunteer and first-time model Trish Oury was crowned Top Model, having raised $10,102. Her spirit and joy was evident to all. The top three also included Jim Bendis ($9,597) and the dynamic duo, Cole Billings and Mollie Hogan ($7,747). The dedication of all our models is a reminder that hope is something we live, give and share!
Behind the scenes, an extraordinary team of volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to bring the event to life. We’re deeply grateful to our gracious host and auctioneer, Molly May and Lynsey Harris; and our presenting sponsor, Kendall Cares, for making this unforgettable night possible.
The outpouring of generosity was a beautiful reminder that none of us are meant to do life alone. It takes a community - each person offering whatever they have - to bring hope, dignity and transformation to others.
