Modeling the spirit of abundance

Models of all ages graced the floor of Mission Bible Fellowship in the spirit of abundance on Saturday, June 10 during the Loving Hearts ministry annual fashion show and brunch fundraiser.

After giving away about $6,000 in scholarships to local high school graduates last year, the Loving Hearts ministry hoped to restock some of those funds with the fashion show. The event themed "The Best of Everything" raised approximately $2,800 to go to next year's high school graduates, according to Mary Newpower, the volunteer manager of the ministry.

"That's something I'm really proud of," said Newpower.

Some of the younger Seeley Lake community members came out to support the cause, as well.

Third-grader Sailor Billing was excited about the idea of being in a fashion show for the ministry. Though it was her first time modeling in a fashion show, she said she wasn't nervous.

"I wanted to support it because they do so much good and I really love the people," Billing said.

Loving Hearts has a "benevolence program" that Newpower said has helped families pay their heat, water, and medical bills in the past. She also said the ministry contributes to the Seeley Lake community fund and Meals on Wheels.

For the fashion show, Billing wore a sparkly pink dress provided to her by Loving Hearts, but she made the style her own by adding sparkly shoes and a gold headband.

Guest speaker Pastor Carrie Benton from Mountain Lakes Presbyterian was invited to follow a brunch blessing. She talked about the impact of donated goods and services to those in need.

"I love seeing it out in the community and seeing our blessings continue," Benton said.

Having taken a year hiatus from hosting the show, Loving Hearts was able to create a bigger raffle than they had previously. It was also the event's largest-ever attendance with more than 100 people coming out to enjoy the show and raffle, according to Newpower.

An overwhelmed attendee, Carole Evans, said going through the raffle baskets was a bit like "looking for pebbles on a beach." It was her first time attending the event, though it's been hosted almost consistently for two decades, barring time away for the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing changes.

With such a high turnout, the fashion show fundraiser is sure to go on again next year.

However, when 10-year-old Gunnar Braulik, who modeled in this year's fashion show alongside his twin sister, Kalli, was asked if he'd model again, he only said,

"Maybe."