Leadership of Jackson County project members from left, Angie Hallow, Aspen Cooper, Ali Schryer, Jena Hanks and Kathy Barber that put on the first Fashion Forward event on May 11, 2024 at Crossroads Park. Their shirts were designed by Blakeleigh’s Boutique’s owner, Justis Raisor.
Submitted photo
Vendors set up for Fashion Forward at Crossroads Park.
Chey Smith | The Tribune
Vendors set up for Fashion Forward at Crossroads Park.
Chey Smith | The Tribune
The first-ever Fashion Forward event was held Saturday at Crossroads Park in downtown Seymour.
A group of five women — Ali Schryer, Angie Hallow, Aspen Cooper, Jena Hanks and Kathy Barber — with Leadership Jackson County brainstormed what to do for their big graduation project and came up with the concept.
They said they were the only all girls group in the nine-month program, and as the five of them thought to do something focused on girls, they turned to the fashion world.
For their project, the LJC group collected donations to give to local nonprofits for those in need.
The event was free, but the donations acted as a ticket of admission. Some of the items requested for donation include new and gently used clothing of all sizes and hygiene products such as body wash, shampoo, deodorant, diapers and wipes. Around the park, there were tubs to leave donations.
“It’s important to give to the community,” said Barber.
Some of the organizations that they partnered with to distribute donations included the Jackson County Clothing Center, The Helping Hearts of Crothersville and Anchor House Family Assistance Center and Pantry.
Their motto throughout their project comes from President Franklin D. Roosevelt: “Knowing what’s right doesn’t mean much unless you do what’s right.”
Not a penny was spent by the group on the event, making it truly volunteer focused. People from all over Jackson County were at the park to contribute, coming from Seymour, Brownstown, Crothersville and Medora. Some of these vendors include Cotton Candy Cafe, The Front Porch and Blakeleigh’s Boutique.
The owner of Blakeleigh’s Boutique, Justis Raisor, contributed not only with her business, but her talents. Raisor designed the LJC group’s T-shirts that say “Fashion Forward” on the front with a heart.
While this was the first Fashion Forward event, these women are hoping it won’t be their last.
“We hope to continue it on,” said Cooper.
To make Fashion Forward an annual affair, the LJC group is planning on hosting their next event on May 10, 2025, but need help. They need people to carry it on and continue to support it with their time and effort.
If you’re interested in contributing to the cause, email LJC at [email protected] or call 812-216-0239.