Project Funway fashion show returns to Westin in Avon on Saturday, April 9

AVON — The past four years have proven that people in the Vail Valley have talent, and this year they will continue to raise the bar. Education Foundation of Eagle County’s fifth annual Project Funway hits the runway Saturday at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Avon.

Based on the smash TV series “Project Runway,” the Education Foundation’s Project Funway encourages amateur designers to exercise their creative prowess and send their creations down the runway for the community to admire. Everyday people find inspiration in everyday objects — bread tabs, bike tubes, construction fencing, ski passes — and create couture designs made of anything but fabric.

‘Mind-blowing’ designs

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“Project Funway is picking up amazing momentum this year,” said Shelly Jarnot, Education Foundation trustee. “The designs are truly mind-blowing. The event is so much fun, and the designs are so inspiring that those in attendance start planning their design for the next year. In 2015, the event sold out, so get your tickets as soon as possible. Support our public schools while you enjoy a really cool, unique event.”

The runway showcases two design categories: a youth division, spotlighting the creative talents of those ages 13 and younger, and an adult division. The event begins with cocktails, light dinner fare provided by The Westin’s Maya restaurant and a silent auction.

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The Battle Mountain High School drum line will make a special appearance to kick off the runway show at 7:10 p.m. Models will strut for the crowd and a panel of local celebrity judges, and awards are given and bragging rights earned for the best designs in both categories. Once top designers are recognized, the party continues with a DJ, dancing and socializing

The silent and live auctions will feature fashion-forward items, tickets to sporting events, favorite local services, top restaurants, local and regional lodging and spa packages and more. If you own a local business, take advantage of sponsorship and auction opportunities to support public education in Eagle County.

Presented by the Vail Valley Medical Center, all proceeds from the evening go toward funding the Education Foundation of Eagle County, a nonprofit organization that raises funds to mitigate the $44 million slashed from Eagle County Schools’ budget since 2009 because of state cuts to education funding.

This budget shortfall directly affects the number of teachers and support staff the school district can offer public schools in our community. All money raised will go to keeping quality teachers in front of our students and quality programming available to all children.