Volunteering’s in vogue

Across the stage, 12 models pose one last time as all in the audience spontaneously jumps to their feet for a hearty standing ovation. They clap seemingly forever, not for the clothes or a designer’s daring new style. Rather, the applause proclaims appreciation for the overall experience of the Santa Maria, California, Aktion Club’s Fashion In Aktion show.

“I’ve seen models on TV before, and that’s where I learned how to model, you know, walk back and forth.”—Santa Maria Aktion Club member Linda Cunningham in an interview with a KSBY-TV reporter

Click here to view a video about the Santa Maria Fashion In Aktion fundraiser.

“It all started in mid-2005,” says Michael Sell, president of the Santa Maria Kiwanis club, which sponsors the fashion-conscious Aktion Club. “That’s when the Aktion Club members decided they wanted to give back to the community, which has been so generous to them. So members came up with the fun idea to organize a fashion show.”

Proceeds, members decided, would support the Vocational Training Center Foundation. The center buys vans, equipment, computers, and other items that persons with disabilities need for vocational training.

The thrift store donated the outfits, which models were invited to select. A silent auction added another source of fundraising income.

“They said they would be happy if 100 people bought tickets,” Michael remembers. “They set a goal of raising US$2,000. Of course, their wildest dreams came true when more than 300 people walked through the doors that day for an afternoon of entertainment, food, and fun.”

And nearly $10,000.

“Here’s living proof that the volunteer spirit never goes out of fashion,” Michael puns.