By: Julie Dermody | Category: In Our Communities | Issue: July 2008
Style show participants from Bethel Baptist Church (L to R): Emily Russell, Natalie Nemecek, Erica Russell, Alex Stiles, Joyce Dermody, Hannah Nemecek, Shelby Rapè and Kerri Smith.
Though it seems like summer just began, autumn will be here soon, bringing back-to-school fashion trends to the minds of both kids and parents. Before the school bells ring again, locals will have an opportunity to see the latest styles and, at the same time, support a valuable organization. The annual Back to School Style Show, hosted by the Owasso Campus of Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children (OBHC), will be held at the beautiful Renaissance Hotel August 2 at 10:30 a.m. LeAnne Taylor of KOTV Channel 6 will return as Mistress of Ceremonies.
Proceeds from the show will benefit OBHC, the largest provider of private, not-for-profit residential childcare in the state. Funds will be used for clothes, school supplies and activities, and development training for the organization’s Student Leadership Council. “Our first style show was 11 years ago, and each year it gets bigger and better,” said Regional Development Coordinator Donna Brooks. The event allows kids to show off their new clothes and get a boost of confidence as the crowds applaud.
“Our mission is to help children become capable, caring adults by sharing Christ’s love and providing hope and homes for children,” said Steve Singleterry, Owasso Campus administrator.
OBHC began in 1903 when Baptists in Indian Territory established the Baptist Orphan’s Home. What was initially a small orphanage in a one-story residence has become a diverse ministry consisting of four residential campuses, a maternity home and three Hope Pregnancy Centers. Through OBHC, thousands of women and children have found comfort, love and hope.
Renee\' Mowery and Waynette Pride enjoy checking out the popular clothing styles at the Back-to-School Style Show benefiting the Owasso Campus of Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children.
The Owasso Campus was established in 1973. “We are a full service, co-educational facility that provides basic residential services, educational opportunities and appropriate lifestyle experiences for 51 children, adolescents and young adults through the age of 18,” said Singleterry. “We are committed to helping children in a Christian home environment, where residents can live in attractive, comfortable cottages.”
Each year the Owasso Campus sees between 60 and 80 children come through the door, sometimes possessing only the clothes on their backs.
One way that churches, groups or community organizations can help is by sponsoring a child through the paper doll project. Groups are given a standard paper doll with a sheet of clothing, and as the group raises money, the doll receives clothes to wear. It takes $200 to outfit a paper doll.
Because this is a presidential election year, Brooks hopes everyone will don their red, white and blue clothing at the style show to display their patriotism. “We will celebrate our national pride and the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of this great country,” said Brooks. “By supporting the children of OBHC, we are truly casting our vote for success."
For more information about the Back-to-School 2008 Style Show or the Owasso Baptist Children’s Home, call (918) 272-2233.
For more information, contact
Subscribe
For Free!