In 2002, when Ranelle Gregory became a court appointed special advocate – CASA – volunteer with Advocates for Children, she did so because she wanted to make the difference in the lives of abused and neglected children. And that’s exactly what she did. “I worked with a family of three young children whose mother was in prison,” Gregory recalled, “And I was deeply touched by the opportunity to work with children who needed someone on their side who listens and cares. Being a CASA volunteer was extremely rewarding.”

But as the busy owner of Your Best Friend’s Closet – the Denver vintage and consignment store that 5280 Magazine rated the best of its category– Gregory soon found she no longer had the time serve as a CASA volunteer. That didn’t stop her from wanting t help raise awareness – and money – for this worthwhile program, however.

On July 20, Gregory hosted a fundraiser fashion show at Cucina Calore Restaurant in Cherry Creek. More than 125 guests gathered at this popular Italian restaurant to sample delicious appetizers and watch beautiful models – some friends and clients of Gregory’s, others professional models from the Barbizon and Apollo Agencies – showcase Gregory’s signature collection of fine vintage clothing and designer fashions. While she is still tallying the receipts from fashion show sales, Gregory is committed to donating ten percent of the proceeds to Advocates for Children.

Representing Advocates for Children at the event were CASA volunteer Kerith Beaumont, who made a brief presentation, and Advocates’ PR Director Catherine Bowman. “We’re so grateful to have the support of businesses like Your Best Friend’s Closet,” said Beaumont. “This was a great opportunity to help raise both awareness of what we do for kids and the need for both volunteers and financial support from the community.”

For more information about Advocates for Children, call 303-695-1882 or visit their Web site at www.adv4children.org.

Check out exquisite vintage and designer fashions available from Your Best Friend’s Closet by visiting their store at 2910 East Sixth Avenue in Denver, 303-333-7467, or visit their Web site at www.yourbestfriendscloset.net.