As Easterseals Arkansas suits up for its annual Fashion Event on April 20, meet some of the dream team that makes the magic happen — both on the runway and backstage.
Zack Gridley, 16
With Easterseals for: 15 years
Favorite activity: Combining occupational and speech therapy to make cooking videos, adding his own commentary and demonstrating steps. His favorite physical therapy activity is punching boxing bags.
Most excited about for the show: Zack is looking forward to selecting clothes from Dillard’s in order to look his finest on the runway.
Haven Blu McCormack, 17
With Easterseals for: 16 years
Favorite activity: “I love hanging out and being friends with my therapists — they’re the best!”
Most excited about for the show: “This year, I am most excited about being back at the Statehouse. The people, the lights, the music make the event so much fun, and I love being a part of it.”
Mallory Stone, 36
With Easterseals for: 10+ years
Favorite activity: “My favorite activity is art. I love making props for the different schools.”
Most excited about for the show: “Getting dressed up. I like seeing all the people there each year.”
Hong Davidson, 15
With Easterseals for: 2 years
Favorite activity: Art.
Most excited about for the show: “I am excited to walk the runway again!”
Amy Hester
Owner and stylist, Red Beauty Lounge
“Seeing the physical progress these kids have from year to year is so special. If we can help make them feel amazing by styling hair, then our job is done! This is truly an inspiring event, and we all leave with smiles.”
Juli Summitt
Hair stylist and colorist, Red Beauty Lounge
Member of Easterseals Arkansas Guardians Board and Fashion Event Committee
“The Fashion Event is full of fashion, smiles and big energy. You’ll learn a lot more about the great work going on at Easterseals Arkansas and hear about the goals each of the models have set for themselves. I love cheering on the models while they work the runway, and of course glamming them up before the big show. This is an evening to celebrate and cheer on some wonderful people.”
Merry Kline
Founder/Operator and makeup artist, Belle & Blush
“Easterseals is an amazing organization that provides so much support to individuals and families in need. We will always say yes when they ask for our help. The fashion show is one of the sweetest and most inspirational events I’ve been to, and the models display so much positivity in the face of adversity. I’m so proud of each of them.”
Colby Valentine
Makeup artist, Belle & Blush
“I think what makes this event so special is it’s giving these kids an opportunity to feel the most confident about themselves and really be a star.”
The Fashion Event
Benefiting Easterseals Arkansas
April 20, 5:30 p.m. | Statehouse Convention Center
Info: fashionevent23.givesmart.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
JASON MASTERS
SELECT CLOTHING
DILLARD’S