Business Partnership Enables “Mustard Seed” Fundraiser to Flourish
Annual Fashion Show moves from Lake Forest alley into innovative office space, raising over $9,000
[Lake Forest, Illinois, April 30, 2019]—On April 11th, Lifeworking Coworking transformed its unique office space into a catwalk for “Fashion for Freedom.” The annual event featured mother/daughter models wearing fair trade clothing from The Mustard Seed, a Lake Forest boutique owned by Judy Kohl.
The mission of The Mustard Seed is to provide artisans and cooperatives a market for their creations while providing a fair wage. The annual fashion show has a twofold purpose: to promote fair trade products, and to highlight and support organizations locally and globally that work to end human trafficking. The event raised money through ticket sales, a silent auction, donations, and store purchases. The event raised over $9,000, tripling all previous single-event totals.
“This event changed lives,” says Judy Kohl, owner of The Mustard Seed. “Each dollar raised goes to rescue a child or women out of slavery, human trafficking, or helping to restore and integrate them back into society.” Kohl has hosted previous fashion shows in the alley outside the boutique, which caused fundraising to be limited by space, and dependent on the weather.
By collaborating with LifeWorking Coworking, the fundraiser increased its audience, along with positive additions. LifeWorking’s owner, who looks for partnerships that bring direct impact and benefits to the Lake Forest community, was interested in housing the fashion show. The coworking office allowed space to display silent auction items, and a place to serve refreshments. (And the fashion show was no longer weather-dependent.)
“We are humbled to be a small part of The Mustard Seed’s contribution to the Lake Forest community and are so excited to see another expectation-shattering result from the “Fashion for Freedom” event. We can’t wait to see what Judy and the team come up with for next year!” says Steven Whittington founder and CEO of LifeWorking Coworking.
Although LifeWorking’s purpose is to provide a location for start-ups, non-profits and remote office workers to be productive, it’s also a place for small business and corporate teams to collaborate. Whittington seeks to help magnify the impact of important community assets, like The Mustard Seed.
“Our partnership with The Mustard Seed – and their mission to support fair trade and fair wages for women supporting their families all over the world – perfectly represents the “Community” in our suburban community innovation hub concept,” says Whittington.
For more information about daily, monthly or special event reservations, call (847) 457-2662.
LifeWorking Coworking gives freelancers and small business professionals a modern work space that allows for privacy and productivity. With a short commute, our members can leave the distractions of home or the bustle of the coffee shop for an energizing location that inspires efficiency and collaboration. Visit www.mylifeworking.com or www.facebook.com/MyLifeWorking
