NWSRA participants hit the runway at annual Gold Medal Fashion Show benefit
Children and adults with disabilities will hit the runway and model the latest fashions at the annual Special Leisure Services Foundation Gold Medal Fashion Show on Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows.
The event is expected to draw more than 600 attendees and funds will be used to provide recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities who participate in Northwest Special Recreation Association programs.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 55 million Americans have a disability. Although the nation has come a long way in the management and treatment of those with special needs, the stigma associated with such health conditions remains strong. It is its mission to provide outstanding opportunities through recreation for children and adults with disabilities. Through more than 2,000 day camps, athletics, cultural arts, special events and recreational programs, individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to have fun, make friends, be included, go new places, learn new things and celebrate their lives.
Foundation president Tracey Crawford stated that due to the support of so many attendees of the Gold Medal Fashion Show, this "translates into extra scholarships, safer vehicles, more support for Lightning athletes, better adapted equipment, and quality inclusion opportunities for individuals to recreate within their home park district programs."
The event, sponsored by local companies including Northwest Community Healthcare and Daily Herald, with clothing provided by DressBarn, Formally Modern Tuxedo and Bachrach. The Rolling Meadows High School Orchesis also will be performing at the show. Tickets are $50/person which includes lunch, entertainment, access to raffles and more. For more information or to register, visit www.slsf.me or contact Nanette Sowa at (847) 392-2848, ext. 255 or e-mail nsowa@slsf.me.
Northwest Special Recreation Association is a nonprofit organization that has enriched the lives of children and adults with disabilities throughout 17 northwest suburbs in Chicago by providing outstanding recreational opportunities in a safe, supportive and social setting for over 40 years. It holds the distinction of Distinguished Accredited Agency from the Illinois Park and Recreation Association, and won the National Recreation and Park Association Excellence in Inclusion Award in 2013 for national leadership in diversity and inclusion initiatives. If you are interested to learn more about its programs and success stories, visit www.nwsra.org or contact Brian Selders at (847) 392-2848.