Special Needs Fashion Show On Sept. 30 In Johns Creek

JOHNS CREEK, GA — Organizers are putting the final touches on this year's Fashion Speaks On The Creek, which will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30 at Johns Creek High School.

Fashion Speaks on the Creek, organized by Jonny & Xena's Spread the Words Foundation, will partner male and female models with special needs to walk the runway with Johns Creek Police Department members. Tickets are $10 each. Residents are invited to arrive at 3:15 p.m. for a silent auction, raffle and enjoy a bite to eat before the show gets underway.

CBS 46 news anchor Karyn Greer will return for a third consecutive year to host the event, which is sponsored by United Community Bank. The clothes that will be modeled by the participants will be provided by Belk.

Local stylist Margot Vetrovsky will team up with Belk to give a touch of glamour and flair to more than 50 models. They’ll get ready for their close-up with hair and makeup provided by Lavender Hair Salon & Shoppe in Johns Creek. These stars will then take to the runway with Star Wars personalities and Johns Creek police officers.

The event will raise awareness and funding for the special needs community. The Jonny and Xena's Spread the Words Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit benefiting animal rescue and autism awareness. The Foundation is involved with Junior Civitan Clubs, Protecting Animal Welfare Society chapters, and Homeless Pet clubs in schools, learning about Xena and Jonny's story, autism and the importance of pet rescue.

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Xena, a severely malnourished stray dog, was adopted by Grant and Linda Hickey, and the pup soon developed a special bond with the couple's autistic son, Jonny. Linda Hickey, president of the Foundation, and Xena meet with civic organizations in the community to further educate, spread autism awareness, and lend support to local families. The Foundation also hosts events throughout the year to empower the special needs community.

It has developed and has taken the Jonny and Xena's Spread the Words program into schools to educate children on the humane treatment of animals and teach them how to "Become the Pawsibility" for autism awareness. Xena also visits local schools and offers love and support to the special needs students.

Along with the fashion show, the Foundation each October hosts the Spread the Words 5k/Fun Run/Walk Festival at Suwanee Town Center. They also work with local jails and youth correctional facilities to send a message of second chances and give support to the jail dog programs and the inmate handlers.

Johns Creek High School is located at 5575 State Bridge Road. For more information about the Jonny and Xena's Spread the Words Foundation, visit the Facebook page, its website or contact Linda Hickey at jonnyandxena@xenathewarriorpuppy.com or 770-851-1266.

Image via Jonny and Xena's Spread the Words Foundation