Project Funway Fashion Show Raises Funds and Awareness for Women's Homelessness Program

Project Funway, an annual fashion design competition and runway show, has demonstrated how creative talent can directly support community needs by benefiting Fresh Start Home, a non-profit housing program for women experiencing homelessness. The event showcases University of Nebraska-Lincoln students and local designers who transform cast-off materials into striking fashion pieces, creating a unique intersection of artistic expression and social responsibility.

The 2024 event demonstrated significant impact, featuring 49 unique designs that captivated over 260 attendees. This success builds momentum for the upcoming 2025 show scheduled for November 7 at The Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. The event's growth reflects increasing community engagement with innovative approaches to addressing homelessness while supporting emerging design talent.

Charity Ace, assisting with fundraising efforts, emphasizes the event's dual purpose. The essence of Project Funway lies in its ability to merge innovation in design with a meaningful impact on the community. The organization notes the event continues to grow year after year, empowering designers to create stunning pieces from cast-off materials while making a tangible difference in women's lives.

Additional support for Fresh Start Home comes through a special raffle package including a luxurious hotel stay, gift card, and VIP tickets to the show. Raffle tickets are priced at $10 each, providing attendees multiple ways to contribute to the cause. The event also offers various sponsorship opportunities such as Exclusive Runway, Red Carpet, Auction, Wine Pull, Trendsetter, and Vogue Small Business sponsors, creating multiple entry points for community involvement.

Project Funway maintains valuable collaborations with the UNL Dept. of Textiles, Merchandising, and Fashion Design, alongside generous support from all sponsors involved. This partnership between academic institutions, local businesses, and non-profit organizations creates a sustainable model for addressing homelessness while fostering emerging design talent in the Lincoln community. The event demonstrates how creative industries can play a vital role in supporting social services and addressing critical community needs.