A local group and clothing stores around San Luis Obispo are getting together for a fashion show this Sunday to raise money for AIDS support and awareness.
Fusion, a male gay and bisexual support group comprised mostly of Cal Poly students, will host the event at the Veterans Hall, on the corner of Mill and Grand streets. Local stores like The Sub, Avanti, Apropos and others will display their clothes and accessories on the runway.
“AIDS has changed everything in relationships. People need to be aware of that and also need to be taken care of when they get it,” said Stacey Kornegay, manager of The Sub.
“(The fashion show) seemed like the right thing to do and we also get to have fun with the clothes,” she said.
All proceeds will go to the AIDS Support Network, a nonprofit organization based in San Luis Obispo. The organization extends support to those infected with HIV through housing benefits, food banks and other areas. ASN, founded in 1984, also provides prevention workshops and HIV testing.
“People who live with HIV live with a myriad of hardships, from medical, emotional and financial. We work to alleviate some of those hardships. We also have the prevention aspect that educates people and encourages people to practice safer sex and community with their partner,” said Josh Parker, outreach education coordinator for ASN and a member of Fusion.
Fusion coordinator Brian Takeuchi said the show, in its first year, will be more youth-oriented than a traditional fashion show.
“It’s not going to be your traditional wine-and-cheese fest,” he said.
All models are volunteers from the community. The night will feature music from emcees Natasha Chamille and Ethelena Cannes. The runway will be opened for dancing after the fashion show.
Fusion meets weekly from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Ludwick Center, on the corner of Mill and Santa Rosa streets. The group, which has around eight members, discusses issues in the gay and bisexual community and promotes safe sex and healthy relationships.
“We want to give a chance for guys to get together outside of the bars and get a more supportive community,” Parker said.
The show begins at 2 p.m. and doors open at 1 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $5.