What do “the red carpet,” a reigning local beauty queen, a former New York runway model, the former president of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club, and over 50 Girl Scouts and Brownies have in common? The desire to give back to the community and to Girl Scouts San Diego.
On Friday evening, Coronado Junior Troop 6136 hosted Fashion With Compassion, a clothing drive with a twist. Each scout was invited to choose a gently used outfit which they would donate after wearing it briefly one last time on stage in a fashion show. The show was also an opportunity for the scouts to be creative with accessories, learn how to walk the stage like a fashion model and have the opportunity to be named a winner in the following categories: formal, casual, sporty, most unique, most colorful, best use of accessories and best in the show. The prize for each category was a gift certificate from MooTime Creamery and the overall winner received an art supplies kit courtesy of designer and artist Katiana Jimenez. All of the girls who participated received a Fashion for Compassion patch for their scout vest or sash.
The troop leaders and the scouts put together a great event which included photo opportunities with Miss Malibu Teen and first runner up at Miss California Teen USA 2019, Coronado High School Junior Zoe Hunt, and the CEO of Girl Scouts San Diego, a veteran of Desert Shield and Desert Storm and lifelong leader, Carol Dedrich. 
Also part of the night were Coronado residents and judges, Nan Long Sandhaus, former NY runway fashion model, and Katiana Jimenez who grew up in Coronado and now runs Katwalk Fashion and Art Studio – a variety of women who have all done tremendous things in their careers and are worthy leaders for these girls. The belief is that when girls interact with amazing role models such as these women, the next generation of G-I-R-Ls (Go-getters, Innovators, Risk-Takers, and Leaders) are developed.
In addition to the fashion show, the troop provided information on participation in Girl Scouts, displayed vintage scout uniforms, had a clothing donation station, craft tables and a photo booth complete with props and a Girl Scout backdrop set adding to the fun. The proceeds from the $5 entry fee and any donations made at the Share table provide funds to enable any girl whose desire it is to be a Girl Scout to do so without the concern of affordability. The event raised over $350 for the cause and 31 thirteen-gallon bags of clothing were collected. There is something very beautiful about watching empowered girls doing things to make the world a better place.
Great job girls!
