VANTAGE and Best Buddies bonding | Photo Courtesy of Mr. Coleman

Even though it is the fashion VANTAGE strand’s first year, it is already making a name for itself. From 4-5:30 PM on April 25, you can immerse yourself in the fashion show “A Day Under the Lake,” where students from Best Buddies and VANTAGE will walk the runway together. Our very own MHS commons will be transformed into a runway.

The whole project is student-led. When talking to the VANTAGE students they said that it was somewhat difficult but definitely rewarding to put together. The idea for this project stemmed when a Best Buddy member joined the fashion classes on their annual trip to New York. The VANTAGE strand saw that the Best Buddy enjoyed the experience and wanted to open up more opportunities for them. To get the stylish garments for the event students reached out to boutiques on Water Street in Excelsior for runway contributions. 

In order to learn the Best Buddies’ preferences, the VANTAGE students took time to do activities with them and got to know them better. When asked what this fashion show meant to her, Kendall Anderson, ‘27, said that she’s very excited to see how other VANTAGE classes will contribute to [it] in the following years”, and that she’s glad to make a lasting impact by “paving the way for the future generations.” 

All of the money raised from this event goes to the Best Buddies club. If you’re unaware about what the club does, it is a club that “creates opportunities to help individuals with special needs form meaningful friendships with their peers,” according to the MHS website.

If this event sounds like something you’re interested in then look on Vanco for tickets and support your community!