Paige Seburn
Niagara Now/The Lake Report
An evening of fashion, food, and philanthropy awaits at the Royal Cambridge Ballroom in the Prince of Wales Hotel, where the community will come together for a special fashion show this fall.
This show, to be held Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 6 to 9 p.m., aims to raise funds and awareness for Nanyas of Niagara, a group supporting grandmothers in need across sub-Saharan Africa.
The evening will blend culinary excellence with style, as models from Tango Boutique will weave between tables, showcasing the boutiques latest fashion trends, said Nancy Bailey, chair of events for the Rotary Club of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Guests will be welcomed with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, donated by Konzelmann Winery, a longtime supporter of community initiatives, then indulge in a three-course dinner provided by the hotel.
Nanyas of Niagara is part of the Grandmothers-to-Grandmothers Campaign, which raises funds for the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
Since its inception, Bailey said the campaign has helped grandmothers and their grandchildren affected by AIDS in 15 sub-Saharan African countries, raising over $21 million for essential needs like food, housing and school fees.
Half of the proceeds will support Nanyas of Niagara, while the other half will contribute to Rotary International projects, said Bailey.
Tickets for the fashion show are priced at $150, including a $50 tax receipt.
The fundraiser is particularly significant for Bailey, a grandmother herself, who feels a deep personal connection to the mission.
“I have a two-year-old grandson, Felix. He’s the little love of my life. It’s a different love than you even have for your children,” she said. “To have your grandchildren outlive your children would be terrible.”
“Although we’re at an age where raising children would not be the easiest thing to do — you would do it, because of your heart full of love,” said Bailey.
The evening will also include brief speeches from representatives of Nanyas of Niagara and the Rotary Club, who will share insights about the causes being supported.
Both men and women are welcome to join in the celebration, Bailey added.
She said she is optimistic about raising approximately $5,000 to benefit those in need.
For those interested in further involvement, Bailey said the Rotary Club is always looking for volunteers for their various initiatives, including the upcoming Holiday House Tour on Dec. 6 and 7.
To purchase tickets for the Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club Fashion Show or to learn more, visit niagaratix.evvnt.events and find “Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club Fashion Show” under Upcoming Events, or contact Bailey at nancy.bailey@evrealestate.com.
