In October, community members step onto the runway for Runway for Rise, an annual recycled fashion gala benefiting Rise Above Violence.
The Runway event features teams showcasing unique recycled and upcycled creations, and the event blends art, fashion and local creativity to support survivors of domestic violence.
Beyond the runway show itself, a major highlight of the competition is the online vote. This is where the community decides which team takes home the coveted Pagosa Prada Award for raising the most money.
Meet Team Top Model
Team Top Model is bringing the swagger. From auctioneer to emcee to now Top Model, Darren Lewis has risen through the ranks and is ready to take the runway with his team.
Joining Darren are Stacey Lewis, Karen Ross and Kirsten Le Roux, who are helping bring Team Top Model to life both on and off the runway.
“We believe in the power to rise up, rise above and raise a little runway swagger along the way — all in support of survivors,” the team shares.
With plenty of personality, creativity and community spirit, Team Top Model is ready to strut its stuff for Rise Above Violence.
How the voting process works
Voting for Runway for Rise is designed to be accessible, interactive and directly impactful.
Here is how it works:
• Dollar-as-a-vote system: Each vote costs $1, and every single dollar goes directly to supporting Rise Above Violence programs.
• Unlimited voting: Supporters can vote as many times as they want, as often as they like, and split their support across multiple favorite teams.
• Where to vote: Online voting is hosted directly on the Rise Above Violence website at www.riseaboveviolence.org.
Why your vote matters
While winning the Pagosa Prada Award brings friendly rivalry and bragging rights to the winning team, the true purpose behind every dollar vote is support for survivors in our community.
Every dollar raised powers Rise Above Violence’s mission to foster safety and healing for those impacted by domestic violence.
By participating in the Runway for Rise voting process, you aren’t just supporting local creatives and models, but you are actively helping survivors in your community break free from violence and build secure futures.
To cast your votes and support your favorite team, visit www.riseaboveviolence.org.
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