By Halle Brindley – Opinions Editor 

Every year, since roughly 20 years ago, Bishop’s has thrown a charity fashion show, where we, the swamp, raise money for a chosen charity. This year, the chosen charity was Lennoxville and District Community Aid. This organization assists with the care of the elderly community, through services like Meals on Wheels, pediatric care, groceries, technology assistance, exercise groups, etc. My understanding is that this organization provides support for elders, allowing them to live in their own homes with as much independence as possible. Back home my grandma is a recipient of the Meals on Wheels program, so volunteering for this organization in Lennoxville meant a great deal to me. Also, my grandma is a fiery woman who is barely scratching 5 ft and she has always been very adamant that she does NOT want to be in a nursing home. Organizations like this one allow mature individuals to live with autonomy. 

This year, the total raised was a whopping 37,000 dollars, which is given directly to the organization. So how did a school of less than 3,000 students and a small town raise so much money? Events like the Rubber Ducky Golf Tournament, Bowling night, radio bingo cards, sponsored gait nights, individual fundraising (a requirement of $100 was in the contract of all models and dancers), public donation links, ticket sales and numerous others are what allowed for this record-breaking donation to be achieved. 

What makes this subset of Bishop’s life so effective is that students can get something in turn, whether that be a Yoshi plush in turn for $62 or a day full of putting around Lennoxville, it’s a tradeoff of experience for a noble cause and you feel good for doing good. 

The actual fashion show itself is one of my favorite events to be a part of at Bishop’s. Ever since I entered the swamp, I have been involved in the event in some way, ranging from music director to website organizer, to being a dancer in the show – it’s all fun. The management and organization of the event have improved year after year, which only makes it more enjoyable. 

This year, I spent time in Turner going over last-minute dance moves, having my eyeliner done, and getting my hair almost permanently lamented, but all in good taste thanks to Shannon, Abby, Kate and all of the other girls. Well, and also Red Bull and Addison Rae.This event our little school runs shows how much of an impact we can have. Good on you, gaiters.