Philadelphia Eagles players march to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters independence
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The Philadelphia Eagles have put on a show on the field this season.
But Monday night, they strutted down the runway.
Big Brothers Big Sisters’ independent fashion encounter is back after a three-year hiatus in South Philadelphia.
“Tonight’s event is probably our biggest event of the year,” said Marcus Allen, president of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence.
The fashion portion of the festival revolved around a fashion show by Show-Boyd, arguably the city’s best men’s and women’s luxury retailer, specializing in clothes for models to wear.
However, as they celebrate their 85th anniversary, they want to give back in a more concrete way.
“We want to support the future of our city and the kids who will make this city even greater, and obviously we’re excited to be a part of tonight’s event, but more than that, The most important thing for us this event is is the mentoring program that we set up with the kids who are in the program for this reason,” said Alex Gushner, of Show-Boyd’s.
Football part?
That was provided by members of the 8-1 Eagles, including cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry and running back Boston Scott.
Former Eagle Brian Westbrook was also present.
“This is my first time participating in a fashion show so this is something new for me so I’m very excited,” Slay said.
There are also people involved in fashion who don’t own legendary clothing stores and don’t play football.
But all this, the silent auction, the walking and the repeating, the glitz and glamor?
These are the children supported by Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence.
“We feel now more than ever that it is time for us to shine a light on what children are going through,” Allen said.
“And what better way to do that than to fight underdogs like the Eagles?
We started a program called Big Cousins where we organize these activities for kids who are expecting a big boy.
The dollars raised tonight will directly help get these kids off the waitlist and into something meaningful to put into their lives.
And all participation on Monday night will help achieve these goals.
