If you take a good idea and match it up with good and capable and committed people, then you’ve got something that has lasting power,” said Ned Helms, grandson of Goodwill founder the Rev. Edgar J. Helms of Boston, who began the organization back in 1902. “He took it and ran with it, and that was the seed of Goodwill International today.”
Helms, his wife, Sally, and Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, Goodwill of Northern New England’s president and CEO, stood together surveying the crowd of over 300 at the Fifth Annual Little Black Dress Event at The Ocean Gateway in Portland on April 28.
“This is our signature fundraiser of the year, and everyone has such a great time,” said Roosevelt, smiling warmly. “The proceeds benefit our Veterans Fund, which is like gap funding. It’s turned around very fast to get help to veterans when they need it.”
Image: cream bridesmaid dresses
Guests mingled over cocktails and perused the expansive silent auction items. Yet to come was the fashion show, featuring a mix of models who are employees, community members and business leaders donning ensembles found exclusively in Goodwill stores.
Board Vice Chair Kelli D’Amore of Deerfield, New Hampshire, attended with her husband, Matthew. John Hatcher of Keller Williams attended with his partner, Dan Kennedy, and Cynthia MacDonald, a trustee of Victoria Mansion, enjoyed the evening with her husband, Bob, of Bernstein Shur, who also walked the runway.
The evening’s emcee and auctioneer, Shannon Moss, gave a moving tribute to the Veterans Fund, encouraging guests to be generous with their bidding. The event raised $75,000 for the fund.
“One hundred percent of the money raised here tonight goes directly to vets in need,” Moss said. “This is a wonderful way to serve those who have served us.”
Michele Russeau of Saco, a supporter of Goodwill who enjoyed the event for the first time, explained why she made the effort to attend the fundraiser.
“I have a softness in my heart for veterans,” she said, pausing for a moment after the fashion show. “I want more for them. I really do.”
Roosevelt shares her sentiment.
“We want to help people find stability in their lives,” she said. “It’s our honor to do that. We feel like we’re just part of a bigger story, but it’s a part we can play.”
See More: junior bridesmaid dresses uk
Thank you for using the Fashion Industry Network. Have you helped another member today? Answer questions in the forum. It brings good luck.