"2009 What Matters Most Fashion Show A Major Success!"

The highly anticipated 2009 What Matters Most Fashion Show made its debut on the evening of Wednesday, October 28th at the Kingsgate Marriot Conference Center to a standing room only crowd of enthusastic guests. More than 400 excited audience members enjoyed the first-ever event which featured unique fashions from Ohio Valley Goodwill as well as the debut of fashion artist Nikki Martin, who is affiliated with co-sponsor Visionaries and Voices. Presented by the Community Ambassadors Resource Alliance (CARA), the show was designed to create awareness about the ambition and ability of all people with disabilities. Proceeds from the event will benefit “People for MR/DD Services.” Dianne Dunkelman, founder and CEO of Clever Crazes for Kids, served as MC for the spectacular event which began with a proclamation from the city of Cincinnati marking October 28th at “Nikki Martin Day,” in recognition of her artistic contributions to the community. The premiere fashion event was a multi-media extraganza produced in cooperation with MAC Productions and Projectmill; both of which were co-sponsors. Ohio Valley Goodwill provided 20 models for the premiere event which showcased unique fashions from its network of 14 retail stores and boutiques. Co-sponsor Visionaries and Voices provided the couture fashions that were modeled by  designer Nikki Martin as well as other artists associated with the organization. “The CARA group could not be more delighted with the outcome of the “What Matters Most Fashion Show,” said Kate Hawkins, CARA chairperson. “The success of the event far exceeded our expectations and the community support was truly overwhelming,” added Hawkins. Co-sponsors of the memorable first time event included: Christopher Marcus Salons, Gina B and Kevin Lawson Photography, David Annett, Videographer, Peter Gregory Florist, Megan Gordon Graphic Design and Carey Digital Printing. Ohio Valley Goodwill has been a partner member of the CARA group since 2004, whose mission is to raise awareness and increase community involvement of individuals with developmental disabilities. The 2009 What Matters Most Fashion Show truly exemplified that mission and  received resounding approval by all those in attendance.   Watch for a photo gallery of this remarkable fashion show coming soon which will feature all of the highlights of the historic evening.