Celebrating Compassion, through Fashion

The 14th annual “Fashion for Compassion” charity fashion show and auction, benefiting the Friends of Caroline Hospice, was held yesterday at the Dataw Island Club. This annual fundraiser includes a fashion show, luncheon, and silent auction sponsored by local stores and vendors.

Although ladies (and a few brave men!) gathered in their seasons’ best, the “compassion” stood out equally amongst the “fashion” of the event: event attendees enjoyed live and silent auctions and a raffle in addition to the main event.

Guest speakers Tim Conroy and Kathy Harvey, siblings of the late Pat Conroy, gave moving speeches describing a journey of love and care provided to their family from Friends of Caroline Hospice. The impact that Friends of Caroline Hospice has had on our community was apparent, as many local businesses showed their support by sponsoring the event, donating products and services for the silent auction, and 14 stores modeled clothing in the fashion show.

Volunteer models of all ages were treated to the full hair and make-up prep before strutting down the runway wearing outdoor apparel, active wear, resort dresses, children’s clothing, lingerie and even second hand thrift store items. The first flight showcased the stores Red Door, Lotus, Matilda Jane Clothing, Beaufort Clothing Company, Urban Nest, and Balance Boutique Fitness. The second flight of stores included It’s Retail Therapy, Higher Ground Outfitters, Grayco Hardware & Home (yes they have clothing!), Grace and Glory, Etcetera, Grounded Running and Kalon and Company – accessorized by Circa 1910 Jewelry.

During intermission, DJ Jesse played auctioneer awarding various vacations and getaway experiences, including a cruise, a New York shopping trip and a New Orleans vacation.

Friends of Caroline Hospice is a non-profit organization serving Beaufort County and its residents for over 35 years. Friends of Caroline provides quality-of-life care that offers hope and encouragement to those nearing the end-of-life’s journey and support for their family, friends and the community.