The Lake Foundation hosts fashion show fundraiser for mental health

CLARKS SUMMIT, Pa. — It’s a unique way to raise awareness for a common problem: a fashion show designed to destigmatize mental health.

“My personal passion for fashion and the intertwining of mental health with the creative aspect and what that means in the research of positive psychology,” said Jeffrey Lake, President of the Lake Foundation. “This event all ties together to be able to break down the stigma of mental health.”

It’s a sentiment our very own Stormtracker 16 Meteorologist Jeremy Lewan echoes in the speech he was asked to give by the Lake Foundation as the emcee for the event.

“This evening is more than just mystery and glamour. It’s an opportunity for us to collectively address and unmask the stigma surrounding mental health,” explained Lewan.

The dresses the models wore were all inspired by mental health concepts, such as anxiety and depression. Some models say they were happy to volunteer for a good cause.

“It’s great, it’s a wonderful experience. I love being in fashion shows, and I love helping people, so combining the two really makes me feel amazing,” said Charlotte Simpson, a model at the show.

“I am in psychology personally, I believe in mental health. To be doing something that I love, like modeling, and then psychology and mental health, it’s a new exciting thing for me,” said Shanice Nelson, a model at the show.

One local psychologist says she attended because of the message of the event.

“I decided to come. I saw it actually advertised on WNEP, and I love the education, I love advocation, and being that I work with people in this community, I just had to participate,” said Jillian Matyjevich, a behavioral health nurse.

WNEP was a sponsor of the Lake Foundation event.