In the immortal, synth-backed words of Cyndi Lauper, girls just want to have fun.
Athabasca’s Annie Syryda would add to that adage that girls want to do good, too.
Three years ago, Syryda decided she would like to put on a fun and fashionable event for the ladies of Athabasca while contributing to something important for the community.
That’s when she connected with Madena Reimer, who coordinates transportation to and from treatments for local cancer patients with the non-profit Road to Hope.
On Oct. 25 from 7–9 p.m., the third annual Road to Hope Fashion Show Fundraiser will keep local women looking fine and feeling philanthropic.
“It’s a ladies’ night out, and it’s free,” said Reimer, grateful for the efforts of Syryda and a handful of other organizers.
“Each year, it’s really just gotten bigger and bigger,” said Syryda, adding that the burgeoning event will largely stick to its tried and true format: light refreshments, oodles of door prizes and a fashion show featuring 12 to 18 different outfits courtesy of local vendors. A minimum of 50 per cent of the proceeds from vendors’ sales will go to Road to Hope, and attendees are welcome to make donations without purchasing wares.
Donations can also be made privately or ahead of time if people are unable to come or want to be anonymous.
Reimer said a Road to Hope driver and client will address attendees.
Syryda will emcee the event with her usual partner in on-stage banter, Karen Wintonyk.
While there is no entry fee, for the first time, a group of ladies can book a table in advance for $50 (otherwise, seating is first come, first serve). The Athabasca Regional Multiplex Jim Woodward Fieldhouse has been donated by Athabasca County for the evening.
Other firsts include a silent auction and a makeover for one of the models.
Anyone interested in donating a door prize or volunteering at the event can reach Syryda at (780) 689-8980.
“We could sure use a few more hands,” she said.
“Come out. Bring a friend. Bring a girlfriend, bring your daughter,” said Reimer.
