In a post earlier today, I talked about the DC Charity scene needing a makeover, to which was met with exactly 27 positive emails, saying they were glad I brought up a topic so many are afraid to broach (including four models, 21 attendees and two who didn’t attend but have in the past)… and one blog post, defending their friends, by someone involved with the event.
First, I don’t blame anyone for defending their friends. I just did it, on behalf of mine. However, what I would like to call attention to is what was failed to be noted in your post that I included on mine:
1. “For anyone that doesn’t know what Fashion for Paws is, it’s an annual runway event that has raised $2.2M so far (over six years). It went from a small, humble event to one of DC’s most well-attended, well-known events in the younger DC social circles…” – I believe that was a positive nod to the program.
2. “It was a beautiful event that took place at the Italian Embassy, was well-attended and still in it’s humble beginnings. It was inspiring – I wanted to help – wanted to raise money for the organization and walk the runway, knowing I had made a difference in some animals’ lives.” – I believe this was also a positive nod to the program.
3. “Yes, these little details are things that I, as someone who has done enough events of all sizes, noticed. Still, these things happen to every event – it’s through no fault of the organization.” – Did I assign blame to WHS?
See, the reason why my post came about in the first place was not because of the execution of the event (although those details made for a strong opening) – it was hearing story after story of how VETERAN models were being treated, and then seeing some of the “aftermath”. This, coupled with my own experiences in some of DC’s other “famed” charities, caused me to re-think how I approach my involvement. Given that this is my blog, whereby I can express my opinion, I’m going to. It is not meant in any way to persuade anyone else, whatsoever, to follow along with me. In fact, I would rather you form your own opinions, as experiences land different for everyone.
Still, I stand by what I said about this scene overall and for that, I will not apologize. I’m not someone who heard from a friend, who heard from a friend. I’ve been witness to, as well as directly involved with, situations where some of those that have worked so hard have been treated as though their efforts didn’t matter because someone raised more, or someone put in more effort, etc.
I’ve seen countless articles, posts and videos come out about how great the vendors have been for various events, as well as how great some of the more celebrated volunteers are. What about those lesser-known? My point is this – regardless of level of participation, everyone who put in more than their credit card number, deserved equal billing in my opinion. Even one volunteer can make a huge difference.
Was my post ill-timed, based on Saturday’s event? Maybe. But for me, it gave me validation in what I needed, in order to make some decisions about how I spend my time, where I spend my money and what is important to me at the end of the day. It doesn’t mean I will never support another charity, or even never support one in question. What it means is I spend just a bit more time contemplating how I do it and when.
