For the past two years, College of Business students in the Fashion program have participated in the Project Puppy Benefit Gala, for the Killuminati Foundation (KF). Students design outfits for local rescue dogs to wear in the fashion show portion of the gala. The theme for 2013 was “Old Hollywood” and 25 fashion students chose to participate in the event with 15 designing unique ensembles for their assigned puppies and another 10 volunteering their time as event staff. Keeley Gierer, senior Fashion Merchandising and Design major, received first place for her evening wear inspired design for pitbull Marcus.
Participating in projects of this nature allows the students to apply their skills while donating time to a worthy community foundation. “It is important for students to get involved in service projects to complete a well-rounded education. Project Puppy provides an additional benefit for our fashion majors by allowing both design and merchandising students to develop skills through design or involvement in event management. We appreciate the opportunity to help with Project Puppy and look forward to continuing this relationship in the coming years,” states Sandra Bailey, Assistant Professor of Fashion.
The 2013 event was a success with more than 350 individuals attending the Gala. All of the dogs featured in the fashion show were available for adoption through Boxer/Schnauzer Rescue of the Ozarks, Paws and Hands United, Wonder Weims Rescue and Halfway Home Rescue.
The Killuminati Foundation was launched in 2008 to help pet owners pay for unforeseen veterinary bills. The KF will pay for up to half of the cost of non-routine medical needs for pet owners in Missouri who qualify. Beyond assisting with medical bills, KF also partners with groups such as the Springfield Boys & Girls Club, Girl Scouts of America and the Library Center to provide education on animal welfare. However, the main event each year to help promote awareness and raise funds for KF is the annual Project Puppy Benefit Gala. For more information on KF or Project Puppy visit www.projectpuppy.org/ .
Photos by April Turner with Uturn Studios
